Hythe View welcomes visitors with Wizard of Oz party

Relatives of residents at a nursing home in Hythe were invited to join in the fun at a Wizard of Oz-themed party.

Hythe View nursing home, on North Road in Hythe, would regularly invite residents’ family members to events prior to the pandemic. The party – which took place on August 5 – was the first occasion in 18-months to include visitors.

Manager Sharon Feleppa and activities coordinator Heather Heath decided to throw a rainbow-themed party to mark the easing of restrictions.

“The rainbow has been an emblem of hope throughout the pandemic, so we thought what better way to celebrate, and from there we decided on a Wizard of Oz theme,” said Sharon, who dressed as the Cowardly Lion for the party.

“All visitors had their temperature checked and required a negative lateral flow test, to keep everyone safe.

“The whole team pulled together to put on a great day for the residents and their families, it was amazing to see the home buzzing with lots of chat and laughter.”

Ahead of the celebration, residents joined in the preparations by making party hats, and resident Maria helped with the many balloons and decorations for the festivities.

Karen Waring Westby, daughter of Hythe View residents Jean Miles, said she felt honoured to be invited to the home to join in the celebration.

“It felt like a big milestone to be invited to an event at the care home,” she explained.

“Mum had a stroke and moved into the nursing home in April last year, during the first lockdown, so this is the first time I’ve experienced a Hythe View event and I’m very impressed with their efforts to make the day special. It was a real boost for everyone!

“The food was delicious, and we all joined in with a sing-along. Mum loves to sing and knew the words to every song, it was heartwarming to see her so happy and content.”

The home’s kitchen staff organised a barbecue and other party food. There was also a raffle which raised £150 for sensory equipment for the residents.

Activities coordinator Heather (Tin Man) and her assistant Georgina (Glinda the Good Witch) stayed at the home until 9pm the night before the party to decorate the care home.

“Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces made it worth all the hard work,” added Heather.

“Relatives were over the moon to be included and to have everyone together was just wonderful.

“Lots of staff dressed up as Wizard of Oz characters - domestics Tracy and Diane were the Scarecrow and Wicked Witch, care assistants Candy, Margaret, Kerry and Tracey were Munchkins, and our receptionist Elaine was Dorothy.

“Ernie, the husband of resident Anne, joined in by dressing up as the Wizard. Ernie visits Anne twice a week and we always include him in our activities, and he stays for lunch.”

For those residents who preferred to stay in their rooms, Sharon and her team made sure everyone felt included by parading around all of the rooms in their costumes.

The 40-bed home has a CQC rating of ‘Good’ and provides personalised nursing, dementia, and respite care. It has remained open to new admissions throughout the pandemic.

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