Lancashire care homes enjoy tea parties during national Afternoon Tea Week

The tea parties are being held at care homes in the county to mark National Afternoon Tea Week, which runs until tomorrow, August 15.

And homes invited relatives to come together in small outdoor gatherings to enjoy a spot of afternoon tea with their loved ones.

Castleford Home for Older People in Clitheroe was among those in Lancashire that held a garden tea party on Tuesday, with families enjoying sandwiches, cake, and plenty of entertainment.

Homes ensured that all the celebrations were held in Covid-safe environments, with tea parties held outside as residents remain among the most vulnerable to the virus.

Hannah Parkinson, registered home manager at Castleford, said: "The staff team at Castleford took the opportunity to celebrate National Afternoon Tea week. This represented a milestone towards normality and residents, families and friends attended a garden party to spend a fun-packed afternoon with their loved ones in a Covid-safe environment.

"The event was enjoyed by all, there were lots of extra smiles, holding of hands, entertainment, lovely food, and refreshing drinks.

"It was wonderful to see residents being able to spend time with their family members, the event was enjoyed by all and a great way to enhance our resident's wellbeing."

Patty Trotter, from Clitheroe, attended Tuesday's party with her brother. She said: "It was lovely to see residents and family having a lovely afternoon together.

"Staff did a great job at this difficult time. Well done to all."

And Jean Sagar, who attended with her daughter, also from Clitheroe, said: "There was a lovely sing-song, musical interludes and amusing poetry.

"Lots of staff were involved and everyone joined in wholeheartedly. Afternoon tea with sandwiches, crisps and cakes was served – it was lovely."

One of the home's residents, Margot Fall, gave a moving speech on the day, praising staff for their hard work in organising the special event.

County Councillor Graham Gooch, cabinet member for adult services, said: "If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is to savour the time we have with our loved ones.

"At times we have had to restrict the number of visitors coming in and out of our care homes to protect some of Lancashire's most vulnerable residents – a decision that was not taken lightly. So it's enormously gratifying to see life begin to return to normal, and to see families come together in a way that has not been possible for so long.

"Thank you to all of the care staff for your continued efforts to keep the people you care for safe throughout the pandemic. And thank you for organising these wonderful tea parties this week, which will no doubt bring a slice of joy to many people."

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