Stafford Hall Residents Enjoy Memorable Bowling Trip in Basildon

Residents and staff from Stafford Hall Care Home, part of Runwood Homes Group, recently enjoyed a joyful and heartwarming day out, as Lifestyle Coordinators Catherine Ranson and Antonia Hopkins, along with Care Assistant Sammy Hooker and Bus Driver Gus M., accompanied a group of residents to the bowling alley in Basildon.

The trip was inspired by the residents themselves, who expressed a wish to go bowling. Among those who took part were Rose Hall, Joan Rowe, Sylvia Robinson, Derek Wheeler, Ron Jackson, Lynn Allsopp, and Anne Duncan.

Resident Derek Wheeler, who had bowled frequently in his younger years, said ahead of the visit: “I used to play it often as a young man and I’m really looking forward to it.”

The group enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon full of friendly competition. Assisted by bowling frames and plenty of cheering from one another, residents took turns aiming for the pins and celebrating every score and every near miss.

One particularly special moment came when Derek chose to bowl without assistance. With confidence and determination, he rolled the ball down the lane, knocking down nine pins in one go. The group erupted with pride as Derek raised his arms in delight, his smile lighting up the room. It was a moving moment, described by staff as a glimpse of the strong and spirited young man Derek remembers himself to be.

Another highlight of the day was seeing Joan, who is usually very quiet, beaming with joy as she discovered a new talent for bowling and watched her score climb.

Lifestyle Coordinator Antonia Hopkins commented that experiences like this are incredibly meaningful: “It’s so important to feel a sense of achievement. It brings confidence, self-belief, and joy. On this trip, residents were reminded of past social moments in their lives, and they laughed, encouraged one another, and simply enjoyed being together.”

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