Chingford care home makes residents wish come true

A Chingford care home resident was delighted when her owl her dreams came true.

Resident Laura, from Care UK’s Ivy Grove, on Hatch Lane, has always loved owls since she was a child and collecting ornaments over the years.

When the team learned that Laura had always wanted to see an owl, they got to work making her wish come true and arranged a trip to the Imperial Bird of Prey Academy.

On the day, Laura had a one-to-one handling experience with a towny owl, barn owl, great grey owl, marsh owl and Indian eagle. Matt, the handler shared facts about each of the owls including what they eat and how they are looked after.

Commenting on the day Laura said: “I got to learn so many new things. The colour of the owl's eyes determines what time they hunt and fly. “

Ivy Grove is not new to granting wishes, the care home has a Wishing Tree initiative which allows residents to suggest ideas for activities they would like to do. This supports residents to live fulfilling lives. From ziplining through mountains to a fish and chip supper, with no wish too big or small.

April Jones, Home Admissions Advisor, said: “At Ivy Grove, we encourage residents to lead fulfilling lives, whether that comes from helping out in the garden or seeing your favourite animal like Laura.

“Our wishing tree initiative is a great way for residents to share their dreams and interests, and it’s so rewarding to be able to make these a reality. It was wonderful seeing how engaged Laura was hearing all the different facts and watching her face light up.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to the Imperial Bird of Prey Academy for helping create such a special day for Laura and we hope to be able to grant even more wishes soon.”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Ivy Grove incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The layout of the building has been configured to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among residents.