RESIDENTS at newly opened Ellesmere Port care home, Cheshire Springs, were treated to a day out at Chester Zoo after expressing wishes to spend more time with animals and in nature.

The trip is part of the home’s person-centred approach to meaningful activities. As well as day trips, Cheshire Springs also supports people to take part in in-home activities and welcomes visits from local community groups.

One of the home’s first residents, Joanne Fletcher, was joined by health care assistants, Deborah Frankland and Tracey Fayle, for a day out at the zoo. The team started with a walk around the zoo to see all of the animals, followed by a boat trip down the lazy river and a tour around the butterfly house. They ended the day with a home-made picnic and ice cream.

Deborah, a health care assistant at the home, said: “When Jo first moved to Cheshire Springs last month, she started talking about Chester Zoo and mentioned that she hadn’t been for years. She said she’d love to go again!

“It’s fantastic that we’re able to support people to go on day trips as part of our activities programme.”

Lindsay Abraham, home manager, added: “At the home, we have a real focus on empowering people to maintain their community connections and do activities that are meaningful to them.

"It’s brilliant to work somewhere that has high staffing levels that enable you to do this.”

Cheshire Springs, part of Exemplar Health Care, opened its doors in June 2022. The home supports up to 20 adults living with complex health and care needs, including those who’ve had a brain injury, stroke or spinal injury, or are living with neuro-disabilities such as Huntington’s disease.

Joanne was one of Cheshire Springs’ first residents and is already loving her new home.

She said: “Going to Chester Zoo put a smile back on my face. We had a great day out.

“I moved here following an accident. The staff are really encouraging and understanding. I feel important and that I’m wanted here. The home is lovely and I’m able to decorate my room how I want.

“I like being busy, so I’ve started working in a charity shop every week and volunteer in the café at Cheshire Springs.”

Cheshire Springs care home, located on Chester Road in Whitby, Ellesmere Port, is looking for a head housekeeper, health care assistants and registered nurses to join its growing team.

If you’re interested in applying, visit Exemplar Health Care’s website or contact the home directly.