Wellbeing Lead
I spent 37 years working for the library service in the borough of Croydon, working at all service points. As a librarian I ran the various library teams – running and hosting various events and activities. Whilst delivering for the Home Library Service, I had to deliver books to a new care home on our list – Rokewood Court at Kenley, Surrey. I loved the place from first glance. I went on Rokewood’s website and submitted my CV. Call it fate but that day changed my path in life from librarian to Activities Coordinator…and I haven’t looked back since.
Being a musician has been very handy on a day-to-day basis at Rokewood. We cover the Seven Branches of Activities - Physical – drum fit, physio & seated exercise. Social – jigsaws, scrabble, happy hour, crosswords, bingo, tea & chat, trips out on minibus. Experimental – educational talks – local history clubs, talks by the borough archivist, Simon Waterfield - actor who performed as Charles Dickens and recited a ghost story on Burns Night. Emotional/spiritual – We have All Saints Church, Kenley visit us monthly, we have a visit out to church too. I do ‘Desert Island Discs for emotional wellbeing. Creative/artistic – We have an Art Class, colouring in sessions for the dementia floor, flower arranging, knit & knatter… Therapeutic – We have a regular Soundbath with crystal bowls, weekly seated yoga, a Listening for Pleasure session where we sit and listen to classical pieces. We have done herb planting too. Sensory – Community engagement with local primary children who send cards and visit. Visiting special places for residents e.g. to see a name in a memorial book.
I have published 3 books for Rokewood - all available on Amazon - just click on the photos.
