Life on the Water: Dirk Kennedys Identity at Heanton Nursing Home

At Heanton Nursing Home, we believe that every person carries a story worth telling. One that continues well beyond age or diagnosis and Dirk Kennedy’s life is a powerful reminder of that. Now living with a Dementia, Dirk is no longer able to write every word of that story himself. But it’s far from lost. What started as an effort to honour him has grown into something more: the early chapters of an autobiography, still in progress. What follows is just a glimpse. Because Dirk’s story is still unfolding but what you will come to understand, is simple: Dirk Kennedy’s life is anything but ordinary.

Dirk had always intended to write his life story, a project encouraged by his mother, who believed his experiences were worth sharing. A wartime birth in a Glasgow bomb shelter, early years spent living aboard a sailing boat, and a youth filled with clever ideas. His life was full of remarkable detail. As a teenager, he built a boat in his bedroom and launched it into the River Thames. As an adult travelled across England in a caravan pulled by a Clydesdale horse! He went on to explore art, writing, and craft! Sharing his stories through poetry, spoon carving, and exhibitions. His time at sea left a strong impression, and after surviving a dangerous storm and being thrown overboard, he began painting the ocean as he had experienced it firsthand.

Dirk is also remembered for his kindness. Whether it was cooking for others, campaigning for safer roads, or helping neighbours, he always looked out for those around him. His values, shaped by Buddhist teachings and a belief in living simply, remain at the heart of who he is But like many, Dirk’s journey took a turn when he was diagnosed with dementia. 

The diagnosis was never something he fully understood, and with time, it became harder for him to finish tasks, remember details, or continue writing his long-dreamed-of autobiography. That’s where Heanton Nursing Home comes in. To help preserve Dirk’s legacy, Rafaella Faccio at Heanton’s communications team is working closely with his family to complete his autobiography. It’s more than a project; it’s a tribute. A chance for Dirk to hold his life story in his hands, not as something lost to dementia, but as something reclaimed. 

Living at Heanton, Dirk is surrounded by a team that recognises not just his needs, but his identity. He is still drawing sailing maps, using it to navigate around the home, and watching the boats drift by at Fremington Quay. He kindness still shines around the home, steadying wheelchairs, washing dishes and holds tightly to his independence, choosing his own clothes and decisions that keep him feeling like himself. Because here at Heanton, we believe dementia doesn’t erase a person. It just asks us to see them more clearly and walk beside them with compassion, dignity, and love. it stands as a powerful example of how personalised care can preserve identity, not just in the present, but for the future. 

 

 To read the full story please visit Life on the Water: Dirk Kennedys Identity at Heanton Nursing Home - Heanton Nursing Home

Nursing Home Celebrates Fish and Chip Day with Classic Chippy Experience

Hatherleigh Nursing Home, near Okehampton in Devon, marked National Fish and Chip Day with a themed celebration that brought the traditional British chippy experience straight to the home.

Family members (residents) were served freshly cooked fish, golden chips, and mushy peas, all presented in traditional takeaway boxes and wrapped in chip shop-style newspaper. For some individuals, the smells, textures, and familiar tastes evoked happy moments of sharing fish and chips with loved ones, or gathering at the local chip shop on a Friday evening as a child.

The homes dining room was decorated complete with picnic-style tablecloths, newspaper placemats, and classic café style bottles of ketchup and vinegar. Decorations such as fisherman’s nets and a flock of pesky seagulls hanging from the ceiling brought the seaside atmosphere to life. To complete the scene, sea shanties played in the background via the home’s Amazon Alexa, adding to the immersive mealtime experience.

“Thank you to the team once again for always decorating the dining room so beautifully, so our family members can enjoy an immersive experience.” – Current Team Member

National Fish and Chip Day at Hatherleigh was more than just a celebration of a much-loved British tradition, but a reminder of the power of food, music, and shared moments to bring people together. The day was part of the Devon Nursing Home’s ongoing commitment to offering well-led engaging, meaningful events and activities that promote wellbeing, identity, mealtime experience and a continuation life.

To find out more about Hatherleigh Nursing Home, visit https://www.hatherleighnursinghome.com/live-with-us/activities-in-care/

Local Nursing Home Sponsors Girls Football Team

Hatherleigh Nursing Home is proud to support the next generation by sponsoring new kits for Hatherleigh Primary School’s all-girls football team. This collaboration reflects the strong community spirit that the home has, and a shared pride between local organisations.

Though at different stages of life, both the pupils and those living at the nursing home are part of the same community. This gesture is a simple but meaningful reminder of how generations remain connected, supporting one another in ways that reflect care, encouragement, and a shared sense of belonging.

Wearing their new kits, sponsored with the Hatherleigh Nursing Home logo, the team took to the pitch with confidence, knowing they have the support of those around them. The schools PE Coordinator, Calli shared after a recent match, “The girls won a trophy! They did very well and looked well presented in their lovely yellow kit, thank you.”

Hatherleigh Nursing Home values its role within the local community and recognises how these connections contribute to the wellbeing and sense of inclusion for those who live there. Staying involved in local life is part of everyday culture at the home, where community ties are nurtured and encouraged. Sponsoring the girls’ football team is just one way the nursing home continues to show that its care reaches beyond its four walls.

Tap here to find out more about Hatherleigh Nursing Home

Edenmore Nursing Home Unites for Mental Health Awareness

According to Mind, 1 in 4 people will experience mental health challenges, and Edenmore Nursing Home is passionate about supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected.

The North Devon care home invited the Ilfracombe community to join them in supporting mental health awareness. Residents, their families, and the Edenmore team came together to raise funds for Mind through a "Big Brunch." 

Big Brunch for Mental Health Awareness

Residents (known as family members), their families, the local community, and the team tucked into an array of food, from full English breakfast favourites – sausage, bacon, eggs, and all the trimmings – to croissants, pastries, and bagels, with plenty of coffee, tea, and juice. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the community, alongside a contribution from Edenmore Care Home, they are pleased to announce that together they raised over £150 to support Mind.

A Big Thank You

Gayle Cooper, Home Manager, at Edenmore Nursing Home, shared, "A big thank you to everyone who joined us, donated to support this cause. This event was a wonderful reminder of the power of coming together, and we’re so proud of what we achieved as a community. We can’t wait for more events in the future to keep making a difference!"

For more information please visit: https://www.edenmorenursinghome.com/

Heanton Nursing Home Hosts Vibrant Mocktail Party

Heanton Nursing Home in Barnstaple recently turned up the energy with a vibrant Hawaiian-themed mocktail party, celebrating the spirit of community with its residents, affectionately known as family members. What began as a fun conversation about favourite cocktails soon evolved into an exciting event, fuelled by the family members' enthusiastic responses: “Oh yes, please, I’d love a cocktail if they’re going!”

The idea quickly gained momentum as the team envisioned a tropical-inspired gathering, filled with colourful, fruit-infused drinks, festive decorations, and Hawaiian music. The North Devon home was transformed, complete with decorations - including mini umbrellas for each mocktail, giving everyone a full, festive experience. Safe, washable shakers were brought in so that family members could mix and shake their own creations, adding a fun and inclusive touch to the afternoon.

The kitchen team prepared vibrant fruit platters that were as beautiful as they were delicious whilst team members dressed up in Hawaiian attire, including some borrowed shirts from team member Robin’s own collection.

Sabrina Stell, Home Administrator of Heanton Nursing Home said, “even though there was no alcohol, everyone agreed that the atmosphere and creativity made the event a huge success!” The mocktail party saw team and family members alike getting involved and sharing laughter and dancing - along with a few spills and plenty of smiles.

Heanton Nursing Home’s Hawaiian mocktail party highlighted the power of community and connection, showing how a shared vision and a little creativity can bring people together and brighten spirits. This event is just one example of the home’s dedication to the continuation of life, whilst building friendships, and celebrating every moment together.

A HEANTON NURSING HOME MEDIA RELEASE
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To find out more about Heanton Nursing Home please visit: https://www.heantonnursinghome.com/

Ilfracombe Carnival Dazzles Edenmore Nursing Home Residents

Residents of Edenmore Nursing Home enjoyed a delightful evening filled with laughter and excitement during a special visit to the local Ilfracombe carnival.

Four residents, affectionately known as family members, along with five team members, made their way to the starting point of the procession. Joining the Ilfracombe Community, who wouldn’t let the weather dampen their spirits, they cheered on the carnival from the sidelines along the high street. Each family member was armed with their own bags of change to donate to local charities participating in the carnival. They admired the fabulous floats, lively dancing, music and vibrant costumes that were on display. With the support of the team, they were encouraged to independently choose which charities to donate to.

“Everyone in the carnival came over to us, and some even had photos with our family members!” said Registered Manager Gayle Cooper “the family members had so much fun, I’m sure a return visit is in order for next year!”

When asked if the family members enjoyed their evening out, one family member at Edenmore Nursing Home said, “This has been amazing,” and another added that he “loved every minute.”

The North Devon Nursing Home is committed to ensuring a continuation of life for the family members at Edenmore by providing them with fulfilling and active opportunities. This visit into the community to see the carnival is a perfect example of that commitment.

To find out more about Edenmore Nursing Home please visit www.edenmorenursinghome.com

When asked the family members what they thought post carnival-  

Peter - "loved every minute, can we do it again tomorrow?"  

Penny - "had so much fun, brings back memories."  

Kate - "I loved it". 

Gladys - "this has been amazing, I would pay money to watch this" 

Pam - "had a massive smile on her face" 

AN EDENMORE NURSING HOME MEDIA RELEASE

Heanton Nursing Home Wins Italian-Themed 'Armchair Day Out'

Heanton Nursing Home in Barnstaple was recently named 'Care Home of the Day' by Creed Food Services during an off-site training day at Nisbets in Bristol for their fantastic culinary skills.

Their reward was an Italian-themed celebration held at the care home featuring Italian cuisine, themed decorations, and the joyful company of residents (referred to as family members), their friends, and families.

Following a vibrant mocktail party the day before, the family members were in for another treat — this time with an Italian twist, filled with the colours red, white, and green! The team created an unforgettable day starting with transforming the lounge with vibrant honeycombed balls, flags, and table settings, before inviting families to join in the festivities. There was something for everyone, from dancing and postcard writing to playing a variety of instruments — all leading up to the main event of pizza and ice cream, giving the chefs a well-deserved break.

Tracy Grant, Group Catering Lead for Evolve Care Group whom Heanton are a part of, praised the team’s efforts; “Katie, John, Gerry and Danielle were brilliant at the catering training.  They are a credit to their home, and I hope they got as much out of the day as I did!”

Heanton Nursing Home, rated OUTSTANDING by the CQC, is committed to supporting its family members on their unique and complex journeys, honouring their individual values, beliefs, and identities. The Italian-themed 'Armchair Day Out' is a wonderful example of this commitment to enriching the lives of those in their care.

HEANTON NURSING HOME MEDIA RELEASE

To read more about the Catering Day please visit https://www.heantonnursinghome.com/evolve-care-group-catering-training-day/

Dementia Voices Matter

As the results of the 2024 UK General Election are in and a new government is in place, opinions on the outcome are plentiful. However, amidst the continuing discussions on policies and leadership, there remains a crucial yet often overlooked topic. Adult social care, particularly the best interest of individuals living with a Dementia who choose to vote, or don’t have a voice is not often discussed.

When researching more on this subject and what the 2024 General Election might mean for individuals on a Dementia journey, I found that a person living with a cognitive impairment can cast a valid vote if they choose to, which is an encouraging and empowering aspect of our democratic process. The Mental Capacity Act 2005 outlines that having a cognitive impairment does not automatically disqualify someone from voting.

Living with early or middle stages of Dementia and having the ability to vote could mean no support is needed, but what about individuals who are on a later Dementia journey? The Mental Capacity Act 2005 emphasises supporting individuals with Dementia in making decisions based on their identity.

Imagine if …

You are voting via postal vote, a piece of paper with boxes, words, and logos that you don’t understand being put in front of you, a pen that you don’t recognise but is placed in your hand. Someone then gently supporting you, guiding you to hold the pen and mark the paper where you want to because this is your choice. 

This could be encouraging independence, engagement and a person-centred approach, giving someone on a Dementia journey the choice to participate in democracy as an equal citizen. But what if the person offering support sees the vulnerability as an opportunity? What if that person voted Labour but the person they are supporting is, and has always been, a staunch Tory? There could be a question of integrity, as the supporter could take advantage of the situation and influence the person to vote differently. What if you simply scribbled an X in the wrong box? You wouldn’t understand, you wouldn’t know you have voted for an opposite party, something that is part of your identity.

Voting is a fundamental part of democracy, supported by principles of equality and non-discrimination. The challenge is to ensure that the person voting with Dementia is protected.

The Ability to Vote

While the right to vote is clear, the ability to vote can be compromised. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, about 850,000 people live with a Dementia in the UK, a number that is expected to rise. The Alzheimer’s Society states that decisions made for a person who can’t decide must always be in their best interests.

Complexity of Voting Processes and Lack of Support

Support is crucial for helping those in the later stages of Dementia engage with the political process. Unfortunately, many don’t get the support needed to understand candidates and issues, leaving them confused and unable to make informed decisions. Processes we take for granted, like registering to vote, understanding manifestos, and going to polling stations, can be overwhelming for those living with a Dementia. The requirement for ID to vote also adds extra barriers.

Liz Thompson, Registered Manager of Sundial Care Home, mentioned that two residents (fondly referred to as family members) usually opt for postal voting. One lady typically receives help from her husband but has decided not to vote this time. Liz explained, “Although someone living with a Dementia has the right to vote, it can be really difficult. It’s ultimately up to the individual to decide what they want to do, regardless of our opinions.” Liz added that whether family members choose to vote in person, by post, or by proxy, their care team supports them by helping them vote. With the 2024 UK General Election now behind us and a new government in place, we need to start talking about the unseen issue of giving a voice and protection to individuals living with a Dementia in care homes.

Despite their right to vote, the reality is that most people with a Dementia living in care do not cast their vote. Given that many of them were active voters before their diagnosis and that voting should still be important to them, this brings up some important questions: Where is their voice? Who is thinking about and protecting them? Who in our society is advocating for social care and protections that our elder generation needs – and let’s not forget that one day, our elder generation will be us. 

It’s up to us, as a society, to ensure that their voices are heard. We need to find ways to support their participation in our political system, protecting their rights and ensuring that their interests are considered in the decisions that shape our society.

Link to Alzheimer’s Society: Making decisions for a person with dementia who lacks mental capacity: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/can-people-with-dementia-vote

Evolve Care Group Media Release

For more information, please contact: https://www.evolvecaregroup.com

Heanton Nursing Home Celebrates New Garden Water Feature

Heanton Nursing Home are admiring the newest addition to their garden – a beautiful stone water feature. Generously fundraised and donated by Alan Fulford, husband to Dorothy, a resident at the North Devon care home.

Alan shared his motivation behind the donation, mentioning that ‘Dorothy loved to sit by the fountain at home.’ He and a friend attended numerous car boot sales selling gold to raise the funds needed to purchase the same fountain that he and Dorothy enjoyed together. Now, they can continue to enjoy the feature at Heanton Nursing Home. Danielle, a Kitchen Assistant, said how Dorothy ‘asked me to take her out to see it’ after a shopping trip, and after they settled in the garden listening to the calming stream, Dorothy said “oh it’s peaceful isn’t it.”

Heanton Nursing Home encourages a Continuation of Life to Family Members living at the home; and the stone water feature with multiple waterfalls can be enjoyed by all family and team members as it has been expertly positioned on the patio, to compliment the stunning grounds overlooking the estuary. Bree, an Admin at Heanton said how ‘our other family members are also enjoying it and sit out there longer than usual,’ and adds ‘we have also had comments from visiting professionals about how lovely it is.’

To thank Alan for his gift, the home has arranged for a plaque for the wall above the fountain, which will remind all of his kindness and generosity.

 

Heanton Nursing Home Media Release 

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To find out more about Heanton Nursing Home please visit https://www.heantonnursinghome.com/