South Grange opens its doors to lonely older people
South Grange opened its doors to a number of people from the community to help tackle loneliness. They invited anyone who would usually dine alone to join them on selected days throughout December for a three-course meal.
Diners were treated to a tasty lunch in the home’s café area accompanied by some of our residents. Guests had a chance to meet the residents and staff, whilst getting to know each other, share stories and reminisce on their younger days while enjoying their food.
Our guest was local and from Monifieth where she had spent most of her life and, after dinner, everyone enjoyed time in our beautiful round room watching our Christmas jumper catwalk.
The home’s Head Chef produced a range of dishes to cover varied individual dietary needs and preferences, so diners were able to eat to their fill as they were served a delicious three-course meal, some drinks followed by a well-deserved pudding. Our guest chose a classic fish and chips main with all the sides, some fresh apple juice followed by some cake and ice cream, which was all thoroughly enjoyed.
The ‘Don’t Dine Alone’ initiative was launched by care provider Barchester Healthcare as a way to reach out to isolated or vulnerable members of their local communities. Barchester Healthcare is also behind Barchester’s Charitable Foundation, which is a registered charity that gives grants to older people and other adults with a disability to help combat loneliness and enable people to be active and engaged in the communities where the Barchester care homes operate.
Catherine General Manager at South Grange who chatted to the diners, said: “The day was a great success. It was a great effort from my team. They are always keen to do more to help those who feel lonely or cut off from the rest of the community.”
Our guest, Jennifer said that she was: “delighted to have responded to the invitation and enjoyed a lovely meal served by most attentive and friendly staff, it was great to have some company and have a good chat”
South Grange care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. South Grange provides nursing care, respite care and YPD unit.