A routine discussion at a monthly residents’ meeting at HC-One’s Brize Meadow Lodge Care Home, in Carterton, has blossomed into a resident-led initiative filled with creativity and fresh, homegrown flavour.
During a lively discussion, where everything from care to laundry to the mouthwatering homemade meals prepared by the home’s talented in-house chefs was on the table, the residents eagerly shared their thoughts on the menu.
The residents revealed their preference of classic evening sandwiches, especially the beloved egg variety. However, something was missing, and residents agreed that the timeless touch of cress should be added to make the perfect egg-and-cress combo.
Brize Meadow Lodge Senior Carer, Amanda Strover, helped with a spark of brilliance. The idea ignited a wave of excitement, particularly among residents Helen Clear and Brenda Springate, who leapt at the chance to take their sandwiches to the next level.
Armed with seeds, a water bottle, and a sunny spot in the garden room, the two residents got to work to grow their own cress to add to their egg-and-cress sandwiches. Helen ensured the seeds were never parched, while Brenda took charge of their daily watering ritual.
Before long, their efforts paid off – the cress was ready, harvested, and whisked straight into the kitchen by Head Chef, Debbie Watkinson-Pope, who eagerly folded it into them sandwiches.
Helen Clear, HC-One’s Brize Meadow Lodge resident, stated:
“I enjoy eating our own egg and cress sandwiches, it makes me feel like I've contributed.”
Brenda Springate, HC-One’s Brize Meadow Lodge resident, stated:
“I've been telling my family all about it!”
Debbie Watkinson-Pope, HC-One’s Brize Meadow Lodge Head Chef, said:
“It's great to have our own supply, I'm glad the ladies are enjoying growing it for us!”
Amanda Strover, HC-One’s Brize Meadow Lodge Senior Carer, said:
“It has been so lovely to see Helen and Brenda's joy in growing their own fresh and delicious cress themselves. They have really taken to the ownership of the role they play in the home!”
The pride was palpable around the dining table, with chatter about their green-thumbed success becoming a daily highlight as residents tucked into the fruits – or rather, greens – of their labour. The idea from the monthly residents’ meeting led to a thriving routine, as the cress keeps growing, so does the enthusiasm.
With their cress operation running like clockwork, Helen and Brenda hope to grow herbs or even a few vegetables. For more information about Brize Meadow Lodge and upcoming events, please contact the friendly team on 01993 323 313, or email [email protected].
Brize Meadow Lodge is a residential and residential dementia care home in Carterton and rated 9.9/10 on the care home review site, Carehome.co.uk.
With 66 en-suite bedrooms and attractive décor, Brize Meadow Lodge is proud to offer person-centred care in a dignified manner, promoting independence as far as possible.