Residents at The Malthouse in Gillingham enjoyed an unforgettable afternoon when they welcomed Pitcombe Rock Falconry into the garden for a very special visit.
The activity gave residents the opportunity to meet a selection of magnificent birds of prey up close.

Residents at The Malthouse Care Home enjoy getting up close with owls and a kestrel during a special falconry visit in the garden.
Owls and a Kestrel Steal the Show
The visit featured three different species of owls and a kestrel, each introduced by an experienced falconer who shared fascinating facts about their habits, habitats and personalities.
Residents were invited to stroke, hold, and admire the birds, many for the very first time in their lives.
One resident, smiling as she held an owl, said: “It was amazing – I never thought I’d hold an owl at my age.”
Another resident said: “What a lovely surprise! It’s not every day you get to hold an owl, and I felt very lucky indeed.”
For residents at The Malthouse, activities like this bring a wonderful sense of variety and enrichment to everyday life.
Debra Wyke, the Home Manager at The Malthouse explained:
“This was such a special activity for our residents. Many of them love nature and wildlife, so being able to see these incredible birds up close was a real treat and you could see how much joy it brought.”

Two residents at The Malthouse Care Home enjoy holding an owl and a kestrel during a special falconry visit in the garden.
Enhancing Wellbeing Through Activities
At The Malthouse, activities play a vital role in day-to-day life. Whether it’s creative arts and crafts, music, gentle exercise or special visits like this falconry display, the team ensures there is always something for residents to enjoy. These activities are carefully planned to stimulate the mind, encourage social interaction, and promote overall wellbeing.
The Malthouse in Gillingham, Dorset
A traditional residential care home with a rustic and quaint feel, set in beautiful gardens, the home is full of character and charm.
The Malthouse is one of the most highly regarded care homes in Dorset and has been awarded a Gold Standards Framework (GSF) accreditation for its standards of care. Independent living is also available at the home in The Stables and The Lodges which are within the same grounds as the home
To find out more about The Malthouse, and the range of services they provide, visit their webpage here.

Marketing Executive
Residents and staff at Tenchley Manor in Selsey came together to celebrate Betty’s 93rd birthday with a homemade cake specially prepared by the home’s...
Albany residents’ seaside wish came true when residents from Albany Care Home travelled to Tenchley Manor in Selsey for a special day by the...
Residents at Foxgrove and Maynell House in Felixstowe got into the World Cup spirit as staff held a football tournament in the shared gardens ahead...
Residents at Walcot Hall Nursing Home welcomed family members, friends and staff for the Walcot Hall Summer Fete on Friday 4 July. This year’s event...