Whitstable care home flies the rainbow flag for local Pride event

A Whitstable care home held a very special celebration to mark LGBTQ+ Pride.

Care UK’s Harrier Lodge, on Thanet Way, hosted a rainbow-themed garden party to join in with local Pride celebrations.

On the day, the home’s lounge was adorned with Pride flags and inclusivity messages, while residents had the opportunity to tap their feet and sing along to iconic anthems from across the decades with live cabaret from Delilah Tickles and Anita Wee. Many residents commented on how much they enjoyed the entertainment and how fabulous the outfits were.

Accompanying the music was a range of activities, including cake decorating, flag making, singing and dancing, which all promoted the message of inclusivity for residents and team members alike. 

To top off the afternoon, residents and staff also enjoyed a barbecue in the sunshine. 

Sadie Porteous, Home Manager at Harrier Lodge, said: “Here at Harrier Lodge, we are committed to ensuring the home is a welcoming and supportive place for everyone, which is why we were delighted to be able to show our support with a special Pride celebration.

“Regardless of how old or young we are, it’s important that we celebrate our differences and promote living in a society where everyone is free to be who they want to be. 

“Pride offers the perfect opportunity to learn more about the history of the LGBTQIA+ community and it was fantastic to decorate the home with all colours of the rainbow in preparation for the celebration. We’re already looking forward to getting our rainbow flags out again for our next event.” 

Team members at Harrier Lodge have taken part in equality and diversity training as part of the home’s dedication to creating an open and warm environment, supported by Care UK’s LGBTQ+ Network, which provides training and guidance to team members on related issues, as well as developing an open culture in every care home.

Harrier Lodge is a purpose-built care home which has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care for up to 65 older people in Whitstable, and incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities, including its own cinema, hairdressing salon and café.   

For more general information on Harrier Lodge, please visit careuk.com/harrier-lodge