Residents at Uvedale Hall in Needham Market recently took part in a Royal Mint reminiscence box activity. The session allowed residents to explore historical objects while sharing memories from earlier in life.
Activities Co-ordinator Danielle Francis organised the session and invited residents to take part. Together, they explored objects connected to the history of British coins and the Royal Mint.
A sought-after “museum in a box”
The reminiscence box forms part of a national initiative run by the Royal Mint Museum. Care homes across the UK can borrow the resource for activity sessions. Because of its popularity, many homes wait for the opportunity to host it.
Often described as a “museum in a box”, the resource contains genuine and replica items linked to British currency and the history of the Royal Mint.
Each object includes a small sensor label. When someone places the item on a special speaker system, an audio recording explains the history behind it. Residents can listen while holding the object and examining it closely.
Sharing memories and experiences
During the session, residents explored a purse of pre-decimal coins, a replica medal, a miniature Shove Ha’penny board and a 1953 Coronation Crown.
The items sparked conversation across the room. Residents shared stories about collecting coins, playing traditional games and remembering customs such as placing a penny in a bride’s shoe for good luck.
The activity also offered a multi-sensory experience. Residents could hold the objects, listen to the recordings and take part in discussion. Those with visual impairments could follow the audio and touch the objects, while others listened to the narration and handled the items.
Activities shaped by residents’ interests
Home Manager Suzanne York said the home was pleased to welcome the Royal Mint Reminiscence Box to Uvedale Hall.
She explained that the team works closely with residents when planning activities.
“We always listen to what our residents would like to experience and do our best to make those activities happen,” she said.
“We previously used a Boots reminiscence box, which created a real sense of nostalgia throughout the home. Because residents enjoyed it so much, we looked for more reminiscence activities they could take part in.”
Amanda-Jane Frank, Regional Business Manager, visited the home during the session. She joined the activity after hearing the audio box playing in the dining room. She said it was encouraging to see residents enjoying the experience and sharing their stories.
Uvedale Hall, located on Coddenham Road in Needham Market, provides residential and respite care for up to 29 residents. The home sits within gardens in the Gipping Valley and focuses on creating a welcoming community environment.
Marketing Executive
With hot weather continuing across Swaffham, staff at Meadow House created a simple outdoor activity to help residents stay cool. The team set up...
Kingsmead Care Home in Swindon welcomed Local MP and Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander, as part of Care Home Open Week....
Handford House in Ipswich welcomed residents, families, staff and members of the local community for a football-themed garden party as part of Care...
A resident at Oaktree Care Home in Yate recently experienced a special and long-awaited return to live football, attending a Bristol Rovers match at...