New care home bar opening celebrated

A new bar and lounge has been opened at Loxley Court Nursing Home as part of a community-funded project to create a sociable space for residents and staff in the home.

The vibrant new room was the idea of Lisa Chappell, head cook at the home, who wanted to create an environment where residents and their family and friends can spend time socialising together, enjoying the occasional pint and maybe even one of Lisa’s famed home cooked dishes.

Lisa recently came third place in the Orchard Care Homes’ Chef of the Year Competition.

The enterprising chef led a fundraising campaign, involving the local community in raffles, coffee mornings and seasonal fairs, to raise the majority of the money for the bar and room. Alongside a traditional-style bar there is a pool table, table-football game, film projector and television, all adding to the facilities now available.

Lisa said: “We are really pleased the bar and lounge is now finished and the residents and their relatives are already enjoying it. It has a bit of a challenge to do, but it’s so rewarding to see it finished, and everyone now has a place to come and socialise, have a drink and relax. I have many plans to use it in future events and activities, including a relative’s day to share with both current and former families of the home.”

Christine Young,