How Songs & Smiles Enriches Life for Our Residents
At Chestnut Manor Care Home, we believe that every day should offer something meaningful. A moment to connect, to smile, and to feel part of something bigger. That’s why we go above and beyond to create experiences that uplift the people who live with us.
One example of this is our partnership with The Together Project and their wonderful programme, Songs & Smiles. Each week, our home is filled with music, movement, and the sound of little voices that bring warmth to our residents in a way few activities can match.
Our Commitment to Exceptional, Enriching Care
Choosing a care home for a loved one is an important decision. Families want to know that their relatives will be valued, stimulated, and supported – not just cared for, but given opportunities to thrive. At Chestnut Manor, we take this responsibility seriously. That’s why we invest in meaningful partnerships, innovative activities, and community-led experiences that make daily life richer and more fulfilling.
Songs & Smiles is a shining example of the difference this approach can make.
About The Together Project
The Together Project is a UK charity that brings young children and older adults together through social, creative, and musical activities. Their mission is simple: to reduce loneliness, improve wellbeing, and help communities feel closer.
Their flagship programmes include:
- Songs & Smiles – baby and toddler music sessions held inside care homes
- Crafting Connections – creative art exchanges between generations
- We Are Friends – storytelling that celebrates lived experience
These projects offer something special – a way for older adults to form new bonds, rediscover confidence, and feel part of everyday community life. We are proud to be an active partner in this mission.
What Happens in a Songs & Smiles Session?
Songs & Smiles takes place weekly during term time in our bright and inviting Ground Floor Lounge at Chestnut Manor. Residents gather from across the home to join babies, toddlers, and their families for an hour of music and movement.
Each session includes:
- A mix of nursery rhymes and familiar old school songs
- Instruments that everyone can enjoy, regardless of ability
- Gentle movement, dance, and colourful scarves to encourage expression
- And of course a personal favourite – bubbles, which never fail to lift the whole room
After the music, we offer refreshments and time for families and residents to socialise. These sessions don’t just entertain. They enhance wellbeing, boost confidence, and encourage engagement in ways that traditional activities may not.
For Residents, Songs & Smiles Helps:
- Lift spirits and reduce feelings of loneliness
- Encourage movement, participation, and mental stimulation
- Spark memories through music and interaction
- Build meaningful relationships they look forward to each week
For Children, the Sessions Help:
- Build early confidence and social awareness
- Understand empathy of older generations
- Encourage comfort around people of all ages and abilities
- Foster a sense of community beyond their immediate family
Each week, we see quiet residents become more involved, hesitant residents become curious, and familiar smiles reappear the moment the children walk in. This is why we do what we do.
What Our Residents and Team Say
Angela, Resident
“I wasn’t too sure at first, but now I truly look forward to every session. It’s lovely seeing the same little ones and their mums each week – you really get to know them, and it makes the whole experience feel even more special.”
Jo, Resident
“It takes me back to when my own children were little – such precious memories come flooding back.”
Home Manager
“Our residents change in the most wonderful ways when Songs & Smiles visits. Being able to offer something that brings out the best in our residents means so much to us as a team.”
Donna, Activities and Wellbeing Lead
“Every time children and older adults share songs and smiles, the room fills with a kind of magic, one generation offering energy, the other offering wisdom, and both leaving richer each time.“
Lucie, Group Wellbeing Manager
“The weekly intergenerational sessions don’t just brighten the resident’s day living within our care, they build a bridge with our wider community. In every shared melody, young and old alike discover connection, purpose, and joy.”
These comments reflect what we see every week: a home filled with happier, more engaged residents who feel valued and connected.
Creating a Home Where People Truly Live
At Chestnut Manor, we are committed to providing more than high-quality care. We create opportunities for living, discovering, and belonging. Our partnership with The Together Project reflects our belief that a care home should be a vibrant place. Full of warmth, relationships, and meaningful activity.
Songs & Smiles is just one part of the exceptional lifestyle we offer, but it’s one that continually shows how great community can be.
We look forward to welcoming even more families, little ones, and music-filled moments into our home. Because at Chestnut Manor, life is made better when generations come together.