On Friday 16 June, children from Battle and Langton Primary School brought smiles and laughter to residents at Saxonwood Care Home in Battle, and joined them in celebrating National Care Home Open Day.

Betty, a resident at Saxonwood said, “I really enjoyed the whole day. One of the best parts for me was getting a photo with little Oliver, who is in the reception class at the school. I also enjoyed a good chat with Huw Merriman, discussing many different issues.”

The day commenced with an outdoor arts and crafts session, led by Sarah Bryant of Creative Minds. Residents of the care home, and the Year 6 pupils enjoyed making a stunning electric blue and iridescent marble mosaic bird bath.

In the afternoon, residents enjoyed a visit from the reception class at the school, and from local MP Huw Merriman.

Huw said, “It is always a pleasure to visit Saxonwood Care Home in Battle and last Friday was particularly special as we celebrated National Care Home Open Day.  Pupils from the Reception Class at Battle and Langton were also there and proudly showed me a new bird bath for the garden which they had helped to make.

It was lovely to see the different generations enjoying each other’s company. I then had a chance for tea and a chat with the residents. We had some quite lively and interesting discussions about recent events such as the General Election and other national issues. The residents take a keen interest in politics and current affairs and gave me some great advice for my new term."

Vafa Hurst, Regional Manager at Sussex Housing & Care said, “Our National Care Home open day was a great success. The theme this year was Friendship and both the residents and the local school children had the opportunity to chat and enjoyed getting to know each other – we all look forward to future visits from the children. Many thanks to all involved for working so hard to make this such a special day.”

For further information about Saxonwood Care Home please visit www.sussexhousing.org.uk/saxonwood