Residents from Hampden Hall Care Centre recently enjoyed a day out at Woburn Safari Park, travelling together on the Westgate mini bus and making the most of the sunshine, fresh air and opportunity to explore somewhere new.
The visit was chosen with our residents in mind. Animal visits are always a popular part of life at Hampden Hall, so the team thought it would be a lovely opportunity to bring the residents to the animals rather than waiting for the animals to come to them.
A Safari Full of Surprises
The safari drive had plenty of excitement, with residents enjoying the chance to see a wide range of animals from the comfort of our mini bus. Elephants, lions, tigers, antelope and many more could be seen throughout the park. However, it was the park’s famous cheeky monkeys who stole the show.
As the monkeys climbed over the vehicles, residents were able to watch them from the mini bus, including through the sunroof. Their playful antics made everyone smile particularly when some of the monkeys seemed determined to stay on board for a little longer!
June, a resident at Hampden Hall, said: “I’ve had such a wonderful day. Seeing the monkeys climbing all over the bus was funny. They certainly gave us something to laugh about! It was lovely to get out, see so many amazing animals. But what made the day really special was being able to share it with everyone.”
As the group travelled around the safari, Hanna, Activities Lead at Hampden Hall, shared interesting facts about the animals they encountered. This added a little extra to the experience, giving residents the opportunity to learn more about the animals while enjoying seeing them up close.
Lunch in the Sunshine
After completing the safari drive, residents enjoyed a relaxing packed lunch in the sunshine. Regional Chef Cristian had prepared the lunches ahead of the trip, with residents able to choose their preferred sandwich before setting off. This small touch meant everyone had something they enjoyed and helped make the day feel personal to each resident.
With plenty of sunshine, factor 50 applied and good company all around, it was the perfect opportunity to sit back, enjoy lunch and talk about the animals they had seen.
Exploring the Foot Safari
The day continued as residents made their way around the foot safari, where they discovered even more animals, including meerkats, otters and penguins. There was plenty to see and talk about, with residents taking their time to explore the different areas and enjoy the experience together. For many, it was the combination of the animals, the weather and simply spending time together outside of the care home that made the day so special.
Lucie, Group Wellbeing Manager, said: “Outings like this are so important. They give residents the opportunity to get out of the home, spend time in the wider community and create memorable experiences together. We chose Woburn Safari Park because our residents love the animal visits we have at Hampden Hall. Instead of bringing the animals to them, we thought we would bring them to the animals!”
Days like this remind us that meaningful experiences can come from the simplest things. Sharing a laugh, discovering something new, enjoying a favourite lunch or simply spending a sunny day together.
For the residents and team at Hampden Hall, the trip to Woburn Safari Park was certainly a day to remember and one that will be talked about for some time.
Discover Life at Hampden Hall
If you’re looking for a care home where your loved one can enjoy experiences, days out in the community and plenty of opportunities to make new memories, we’d love to welcome you to Hampden Hall.
To find out more about life at Hampden Hall or to arrange a personal show round, call our friendly team today on 01296 616600. We’d be delighted to show you around and answer any questions you may have.