Right at Home Launches the First Big Green Picnic in Bishop’s Stortford

On Friday 9 May 2025, we were proud to take part in a special dementia-friendly picnic in the gardens of Meadowbrook Care Home in Bishop’s Stortford. The event marked the pilot for the Big Green Picnic, a new national initiative aiming to help people living with dementia and their carers enjoy time outdoors in a relaxed and inclusive setting.

We organised the event in partnership with Dementia Adventure and Meadowbrook Care Home, bringing together members of the local community for a day that encouraged social connection, community and enjoyment in nature.

Christopher Neal, our Managing Director at Right at Home Stevenage, Bishop’s Stortford & Braintree, said:

“The picnic was a fantastic success, thanks to the incredible support from Dementia Adventure, Meadowbrook Care Home, and all the local groups who came together to make the day special. Everyone worked seamlessly to create a brilliant atmosphere, and with the sun shining all day, it couldn’t have been better. It’s been a wonderful event, and everyone who came along had a great time.”

We welcomed 11 of our Clients and 20 residents from Meadowbrook, alongside their families, carers and support staff. The space was set up with sensory activities and simple games – all designed to be accessible and enjoyable.

There was a sensory table with natural items like pine cones and shells, nature-themed books, and games such as skittles and beach ball toss. Freddie’s Flowers, based in Battersea, ran a flower arranging activity which was very popular.

Entertainment was provided by actress and singer Sian Reeves, who performed songs like Fly Me to the Moon and Blue Suede Shoes. Her dog, Ronnie the Rocket, also brought a smile to many faces.

Everyone enjoyed a good spread of food and drink, including sandwiches from South Street Pantry café, pork pies, homemade lemonade, and a selection of cakes from COOK that went down a treat!

The Big Green Picnic campaign will officially launch across the UK during National Picnic Week and Care Home Open Week (16–22 June 2025). We’re pleased to be supporting this initiative and Right at Home offices across the country will be organising similar events in their local areas.

Gordon Malcolm, Dementia Training and Partnerships Lead at Dementia Adventure, said:

“This is about helping people have a brilliant time in a space that’s welcoming and engaging. We want to offer opportunities to socialise and enjoy the outdoors in a meaningful way.”

Fiona Petit, CEO of Dementia Adventure, added:

“We’re thrilled with how today went. This is about creating inclusive, accessible experiences that allow people to enjoy the outdoors together. We hope future events will be intergenerational and even more widely attended.”

And Laura Adams, General Manager at Meadowbrook Care Home, commented:

“The event was a massive success due to the efforts of all involved. It was a pleasure to work with Dementia Adventure and Right at Home. The sun was shining, and everyone had a fantastic time.”

We’re looking forward to bringing more Big Green Picnic events to life and helping our Clients enjoy meaningful experiences out in the community.

At Right at Home, events like the Big Green Picnic reflect the way we approach care every day – with a strong focus on individual needs, meaningful connection, and quality of life. Our person-centred approach means we take the time to truly understand our Clients, their routines, preferences and personalities, so we can deliver care that supports both physical wellbeing and emotional fulfilment.

Whether it’s dementia care, companionship, personal care, or help at home after a hospital stay, our carefully matched Carers build trusted relationships that make a real difference. We believe that every person deserves to feel valued, included and supported – not just during special events, but in everyday life.

If you’d like to learn more about our homecare services or how we can support you or a loved one, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.