Welcome Wednesdays bring Food, Fun and Friendship to Wickmeads

Making the middle of the week something to celebrate

Wednesday might traditionally be known as ‘hump day’, but residents at Wickmeads have a very different reason to look forward to the middle of the week thanks to the home’s popular ‘Welcome Wednesday’ events.

Every Wednesday, Wickmeads throws open its doors to welcome entertainers, speakers, friends, relatives and members of the local community for an afternoon of entertainment and companionship.

The weekly events have become a firm favourite among residents, with the spring and summer programme featuring everything from live singers and musical theatre to fascinating talks about local history.

Music and memories at Wickmeads

Live music is always high on the residents’ list of requests, so Hudson, Activity Lead at Wickmeads, has built up an impressive collection of singers, musicians and entertainers who regularly visit the home.

Seasoned cruise ship entertainer Steve Shappelle is among the familiar faces. Alongside his music, Steve entertains residents with stories about some of his famous friends, including Petula Clark and Anita Harris. Hearing their names and stories can spark fond memories of watching much-loved entertainers on television during the 1960s and 1970s.

The Diamond Divas have also brought their toe-tapping collection of classic and modern songs to Wickmeads, while popular performer Retro Rita transports residents back to the 1950s with her vintage outfits and music from the era. Her performances regularly have residents clapping, singing and even dancing along from their chairs.

Another popular visitor is local singer Bee Chumley, who has built up a loyal following in the area and always encourages plenty of singing along when she performs at the home.

Discovering new performers

Welcome Wednesdays also give residents the opportunity to discover new performers.

This summer, Elaine and Terry made their first visit to Wickmeads, combining songs from popular musicals with stories and memories from the stage and screen. Their performance prompted conversations among residents about favourite theatre trips and memories of watching classic films at the cinema.

Wickmeads also welcomed Joanna through Time2Shine. Her performance proved particularly moving, with her voice and choice of songs touching the hearts of members of the audience.

For the team at Wickmeads, it is moments like these that demonstrate just how powerful music can be. A familiar melody can spark a memory, encourage conversation or simply bring people together to enjoy the moment.

Wickmeads’ own stars take to the stage

The entertainment does not only come from visiting performers.

Wickmeads’ own Activities Team regularly gets involved, with Activity Assistant Jo recently putting on an ABBA tribute complete with much-loved hits, feather boas and fancy hats.

Hudson also hosts sing-along sessions and jukebox favourites, encouraging residents to request the songs that mean something to them and enjoy them together.

The varied programme means there is always something different to look forward to.

Something for everyone

While music plays a big part in Welcome Wednesdays, the events are designed to cater for a wide range of interests.

Recent visitors have included speaker Steve Roberts, who delivers presentations covering history and local places of interest. The familiar subjects encourage residents and guests to share their own memories, experiences and knowledge, creating plenty of conversation along the way.

And, of course, no Welcome Wednesday would be complete without something delicious to enjoy.

The talented chefs at Wickmeads prepare fresh cakes for residents and visitors to enjoy together, providing another opportunity to sit down, chat and spend time in good company.

Welcome Wednesdays have become a wonderful part of life at Wickmeads, bringing residents, relatives, entertainers and the wider community together every week.

From a favourite song that brings back a special memory to a fascinating local history story shared over a slice of homemade cake, Wednesday at Wickmeads is all about creating opportunities for Food, Fun and Friendship.