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When Smurf The Pony Came To Visit!

 

Residents at Cramlington House received an extra special visit this week from none other than Smurf, a Shetland pony, owned by Lisa Walker who runs Mini Pony Hire.

Smurf, who is blind, was introduced to several residents including those who struggle to communicate and interact. The impact Smurf had on was wonderful to see, residents could stroke, pet and speak to him and this really helped to bring some residents out of their shell as the event sparked lots of conversation, excitement and smiles!

Kim Stubbs, our Wellbeing Champion at Cramlington House, said: “It was incredible to watch the effect Smurf had on the residents, who have varying care needs. His presence, demeanour and interaction really did lift their spirits, encouraged them to engage with others and created a lovely atmosphere within the home long after Smurf went back home with his owner. Residents chatted about his visit for hours afterwards and I am sure it will be a popular topic of conversation when relatives come to see them later this week and into the weekend!”

We are focused on providing personalised care of the highest quality and animals play a key part in this. It’s proven to provide excellent benefits to residents including greater interaction, improving physical and mental wellbeing by having a calming effect and helping residents to relax and feel comfortable.

We can’t wait to see Smurf again!

 

What people are saying

  • "I am very pleased with how my mother has settled in and generally how supportive and caring the staff are. This has given us peace of mind knowing that she is safe & well looked after. Thank you."

  • "Our mum has been a resident at Cramlington House for over a year and we have nothing but praise for the friendly, approachable staff and management. We always feel like part of an extended family and when we visit nothing is too much bother. We are completely happy with the standard of care, support and understanding we all receive as a family."

  • "From the first day, I knew it was the place for my mum. Clean, friendly staff, lovely environment! My mum would not get the opportunity to do the activities she is experiencing if she was not in Cramlington House. It is home from home and we can visit anytime. I can't say enough of how great Cramlington House is. "

  • "This is an absolutely superb care facility. The staff say that this is the home of the residents, in which they work - and they evidence that philosophy every day. In the last months of our mother's long life, we took comfort form the fact that she was safe and secure, being well-fed and looked after. The entire care team are brilliant. "

  • "All the staff at West Farm have provided such wonderful care, compassion and support to my auntie. We both feel incredibly lucky to have found West Farm, it’s been the perfect home for my auntie. I can honestly say, hand on heart, every aspect of the care provided by each member of staff at West Farm has been outstanding."