Whitegates Care Centre hosts summer fair in Laleham, bringing joy to residents and community
Whitegates Care Centre in Laleham, part of CHD Living’s award-winning group of care services, recently welcomed residents, relatives, and the local community for a vibrant summer fair filled with live music, food and fundraising.
The event was planned by Whitegates’ dedicated wellbeing coordinators following a resident-led meeting where the idea of a traditional summer fair was first suggested. With input from residents and support from the wider CHD Living team, the team created a lively day of entertainment that brought together people of all ages for a memorable celebration.
Guests enjoyed performances from professional musicians, including Matthew, who performed singalong favourites and upbeat rock and roll classics, and Pauline, whose wide repertoire ranged from 1930s hits to modern chart-toppers. The atmosphere was relaxed and joyful, with residents and guests clapping along, sharing stories and soaking up the sunshine.
A BBQ was laid on by the in-house chef, offering a full summer menu with both meat and vegetarian options, complemented by a selection of refreshments including non-alcoholic Pimms, rum punch, and wine donated by a local shop.
The event also featured garden games and stalls, including a handmade craft table hosted by a Whitegates team member who donated her own crochet and jewellery creations for sale. A hook-a-duck game proved especially popular with visiting children, while a raffle - with prizes donated by local businesses - raised additional funds for the home. Residents like Frank Day (95) even pitched in with the preparations, helping fold raffle tickets on the day.
In total, the event raised £400 for Whitegates’ ongoing fundraising efforts, and feedback from residents and their families has been overwhelmingly positive.
Pam Hewitt (91) said, “The whole day was a lot of fun,” while Andy Duncan (84) and his wife added, “It really was a wonderful day.” Fellow resident Paul Barallet (82) commented, “The atmosphere with the music was lovely,” and Tony Moonan (58) shared, “The staff worked really hard to put on a great event.”
Sally-Anne Cowdrey, Wellbeing Coordinator at Whitegates, said:
“We’re so proud of the day we created. Our residents asked for a summer fair and it was important to us that they felt fully part of the process. Everyone pulled together - staff, families, local businesses - and the result was a truly joyful afternoon. Events like this remind us of the power of community and the importance of creating meaningful moments.”
Whitegates Care Centre supports individuals with nursing, residential and dementia needs, with a focus on person-centred care, family involvement and CHD Living’s group-wide ethos of Creating Happiness Daily.