Spring 2019 – Abbeyfield Newcastle

Hello Everyone,

Well, it’s Springtime at last and we welcome some better weather, which always makes us feel better!

We have been busy lately and I wanted to mention 2 key events of late. I had the pleasure of presenting John Potter, our Chef at Castle Farm, a certificate and £100 gift voucher for him achieving 25 years exemplary service with us here at Abbeyfield. We also presented vouchers in recognition of long service to Kath Brown, our manager at the Grove, and to Lorraine Lawson who is our payroll officer. Between the 3 of them they have amassed 87 years continuous service ! – quite amazing really. A huge well done and a big thank you to all 3 for their continued commitment and hard work.

Now, in total contrast, we welcome our newest staff member – Natalie Pitman. Natalie joins us as our newly appointed Activities Session Leader, and she will be spending her time across both homes arranging and delivering a wide range of activities for our residents, along with help from volunteers. Natalie has a lot of experience in this area and I’m sure we will all make her welcome as she gets to know her new colleagues and friends.

I hope you enjoy the pictures showcasing some of our recent activities – lots more to come as we progress through the summer.

So, until next time – keep that sunscreen to hand and enjoy the sunshine.

John Connelly

During a recent Castle Farm coffee morning CEO John Connelly presented a long-service certificate together with a gift voucher to chef John Potter, to mark 25 years’ service to Abbeyfield Newcastle.

Natalie Pitman is our newly appointed Activities Session Leader and will be working with Helen our Activities and Volunteer Co-ordinator. She will work across the two homes delivering activities to our residents along with our volunteers. With a background in running events and activities Natalie says,
“I’m very happy to be joining Abbeyfield Newcastle and look forward to engaging and involving residents in enjoyable and meaningful activities.”

An Easter craft session at Castle Farm resulted in theses beautiful displays of daffodils and decorated eggs.

Smurf the pony made a welcome return to The Grove on St George’s Day and wore his England flags with pride.

Residents at The Grove were visited by Clive from the Ouseburn Trust who gave an interesting talk on the history of the Ouseburn area of Newcastle which includes the Victoria tunnel which used to transport coal under the city from a local colliery to the river Tyne. It was well received by our residents.

And finally … residents at both homes have sown sunflower seeds in a competition to win £500 for their home. Watch this space and fingers crossed.

Can you spare a few hours?

If you would like to volunteer with us speak to Helen on 0191 285 7174 option 3 or via email h.angel@abbeyfieldnewcastle.org.uk to find out how you can become involved.