Community, Connection and a Half Marathon: July Highlights from Across Our Network

July has been a busy one for our offices. From joyous dance performances and afternoon tea in the park to a 250-strong community event and a half marathon run in soaring heat, our amazing care professionals and franchise owners have spent the past few weeks doing what they do best — bringing people together, supporting Clients to stay connected, and championing the causes that matter to them.

Here are four stories from across the Right at Home network that caught our eye this month.

Around 250 people made their way to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway in July for the fourth annual Independent Living Show, organised by Right at Home Isle of Wight.

More than 40 exhibitors came together under one roof — local businesses, charities and community organisations offering guidance on independent living, home safety, home improvements, wellbeing, food services and much more. The aim, as it has been since the show launched, is to make it easier for Islanders and their families to find the support that helps people live safely, happily and independently at home.

Soaring temperatures made conditions inside the marquees challenging at times, but stallholders welcomed guests throughout the day with information, advice and practical support. The High Sheriff of the Isle of Wight was among those attending, while local musician John from Totland Sky entertained visitors with banjo performances.

Feedback from both visitors and exhibitors was overwhelmingly positive. One attendee described taking part as a privilege and praised the organisation behind the day, adding that their 92-year-old mother had thoroughly enjoyed it.

With numbers growing year on year, organisers say the show reflects a real appetite for a single, welcoming place where Islanders can discover the support available to them.

Clients, families and team members at Right at Home Guildford & Farnham enjoyed a live professional dance performance in July, as Doorstep Duets returned for another summer visit.

Now in its sixth year, Doorstep Duets was created in 2021 by Matthew Bourne's New Adventures and Farnham Maltings in response to social isolation. The initiative brings free professional performances directly into local communities, reaching people who might not otherwise have access to high-quality arts experiences.

This year's piece, Bench, invited the audience to imagine the lives behind the people who share a park bench. Three dancers portrayed characters from different points in time whose stories unexpectedly intertwined — including one inspired by a woman living through the Second World War, who stayed in the conversation long after the performance had finished.

For Clients living with dementia in particular, music and movement can support cognitive stimulation, encourage engagement and help reconnect people with memories and emotions. Registered Manager Adriana Mendonca described the visit as one of the highlights of the office's summer calendar, and thanked everyone involved in making the afternoon such a success.

A huge congratulations to Managing Director Paresh Mistry and Registered Manager Samuel Harrop at Right at Home Ilkley, Keighley & Skipton, who crossed the finish line of the Ilkley Half Marathon on one of the hottest days of the year.

Thirteen miles is a serious undertaking in any conditions. Doing it in that heat took real determination, resilience and teamwork — and the pair supported each other every step of the way.

Paresh and Sam took on the challenge to raise funds for Dementia Adventure, a fantastic charity partnered with the Right at Home network. Dementia Adventure helps people living with dementia enjoy the outdoors and the benefits of nature, from supported holidays to time spent in green spaces closer to home. Fresh air, movement and shared experiences can lift mood, ease agitation and create moments of real connection for families.

There were plenty of smiling faces at Oaks Park this July as Right at Home Sutton & Mid-Surrey held its annual Hello Club Summer Party.

Guests enjoyed afternoon tea — freshly made sandwiches and a generous spread of cakes — in glorious sunshine, with plenty of time to chat, catch up and make new friends in the park's beautiful surroundings.

Entertainment came from Singing Sensations, whose set of classic songs had guests tapping their feet from the opening number. Before long the dance floor had filled with people singing along and dancing together.

Events like this are about more than food and music. Companionship, social connection and staying active in the local community all play an important part in the personalised care the team delivers, and the Hello Club gives Clients the chance to enjoy new experiences alongside familiar faces.

Managing Director Tim Haigh said it was wonderful to see everyone from the Hello Club enjoying their time together, and thanked Oaks Park for its hospitality and Singing Sensations for the entertainment.