The Happiness Programme at Fairmile Grange

Happiness Programme at Fairmile

Happiness landed at Fairmile Grange, Christchurch, Dorset yesterday… and it came in the form of a giant “Smiley”! We are absolutely thrilled to officially launch the Social-Ability Happiness Programme, and what a truly joyful afternoon it turned out to be for everyone involved.

Interactive Fun with “Smiley”

At the heart of the programme is an innovative interactive projector, affectionately known as Smiley. By projecting light-based games and activities directly onto tables, it allows residents to engage in a world of sensory play. From chasing virtual butterflies to popping bubbles, the technology encourages movement and coordination in a way that feels like pure play.

Rock Stars in the Making

The afternoon wasn’t just about games – it was about performance! The group used the technology to enjoy a bit of karaoke, revealing some secret rock stars among our residents. The room was quickly filled with laughter, song, and plenty of “Smiley” smiles. This technology is a wonderful way to spark connection, stimulate memories, and bring a modern touch of magic to our daily activities.

Sparking Connection and Joy

It is already safe to say that our residents are loving every moment of this new addition to the home. The Social Ability Happiness Programme is designed specifically to improve wellbeing and social engagement, and seeing the immediate impact on the atmosphere at Fairmile Grange has been heartening for staff and families alike.

Considering care for a loved one?

Are you interested in a care home that embraces innovative technology to enhance resident happiness? Fairmile Grange is dedicated to providing cutting-edge, compassionate care that keeps our community connected and engaged. To see “Smiley” in action or to learn more about our nursing and dementia care, please contact our team today to book a visit.

Catherine
Sales Manager

Catherine has worked in sales and marketing her whole career, after graduating with a degree in Textile Management she worked in Corporate Workwear for many years. Catherine’s first role in the care sector was working with a disability charity that ran nursing homes and enablement projects for young adults.

Catherine

While her two children were younger, she joined her husband in his estate agency, but was delighted to return to the care sector in 2020 and now cannot imagine doing anything else.

Catherine’s role with Allegra is to support residents and their families as they explore care options. Working with the teams in the individual homes she ensures that during every stage from initial enquiry through to moving in with us every question is answered, and we offer the reassurance needed for the next chapter in our resident’s life. It is important for our residents to remain part of the community in which will have lived for years, often all their lives, so the other part of this role is connecting with local community groups, charities and organisations.

Catherine has said that working for Allegra with their groundbreaking household model means we are offering a home with compassion and care whilst ensuring residents are retaining their independence and quality of life.

Out of work Catherine enjoys baking and gardening The children are older now, but still keep her busy!

Paul Thomas
Regional Manager - Western Region

Paul has joined Allegra Care with 28 years’ experience in the health and social care sector including working in senior leadership roles for the last 18 years; covering operations, business management and quality assurance. Paul has a real passion for person centred care and how that is delivered at the highest level.

Allegra Team Paul Thomas

Paul has worked across a diverse sector over his time in health and social care and brings a wealth of experience to his new role as Regional Manager. Paul believes in integrating real and meaningful values and culture into a service and in doing so, delivering the outcomes for the people we support. Paul goes by the theory of values with no meaning, have no value.

Outside of work, Paul is the father of three boys and a 2nd degree black belt who teaches Judo.