Bridging the Generation Gap: A Campfire Sing-Along at Ashton Manor
There’s something uniquely timeless about the warm glow of a campfire, and the cadence of voices raised in song. It’s a universally cherished tradition, one that easily bridges divides, be it age, race, or creed.
At Ashton Manor, we recently had the opportunity to experience this time-honoured tradition within our walls, and the result was nothing short of magical. The home, already well-renowned as a ‘Carehome.co.uk Top 20 North West‘ care home, played host to an animated group of Guides from the 6th Morecambe pack. But this evening wasn’t just about nostalgia; it was about building connections, sparking conversations, and creating an unforgettable evening full of laughter, shared stories, and song.
At the helm of this unique event was Joanne Tyson, the manager of Ashton Manor, and a guiding force both literally and figuratively. As the Guide leader herself, she was perfectly positioned to facilitate this evening, using her knowledge of Guiding to break the ice and bridge the gap between the young and the old.
Joanne, a local to the area, is no stranger to community engagement. She takes immense pride in her community and is passionate about integrating Ashton Manor into the local fabric. This event was a testament to her commitment, highlighting the genuine compassion and dedication she brings to her dual roles.
Our residents at Ashton Manor, accustomed to high-quality care and a myriad of engaging activities, found this particular event truly special. As they sipped on hot chocolate, savoured marshmallows, and joined in the chorus of familiar songs, their faces lit up with the joy of reliving cherished memories. Their stories from their own Guiding and Scouting experiences, narrated with enthusiasm and vivid detail, were a source of awe and inspiration for the young Guides.
One of the visiting Guides, ten-year-old Layla Pearcy, expressed her joy at the opportunity to interact with our residents. For her, it was not only about giving back to the community but about the thrill of learning history from people who had lived it. Her excitement and the residents’ animated storytelling added to the vibrant atmosphere, making the evening a resounding success.
This intergenerational event wasn’t just about reminiscing; it embodied the person-centred philosophy that Ashton Manor upholds. Here, quality residential and dementia care goes hand in hand with fostering an environment that encourages connection, promotes wellbeing, and values community engagement. It’s what sets us apart, and it’s a core part of our mission as we prepare to expand our footprint with the opening of Astley View, our new care home in Chorley.
Ashton Manor is more than just a care home; it’s a thriving community that brings together residents, our team, families, and local communities in a rich tapestry of shared experiences and mutual support. The success of our campfire sing-along evening reaffirms our belief in the power of community engagement, in the magic that
happens when you bridge the generation gap, and in the
beautiful harmony that rings out when generations raise
their voices in song.
As we move forward, we’re excited about creating more such opportunities for interaction and engagement. We’re committed to crafting memorable moments that not only enhance the lives of our residents but also enrich our broader community. And most importantly, we’re dedicated to keeping the spirit of that magical sing-along evening alive, reminding us that at Ashton Manor, we’re all part of one big, harmonious family.
