The Old Vicarage benefits from community kindness

Residents at The Old Vicarage care home in Leigh, near Sherborne, have been enjoying some new, high-tech sensory and communications equipment at the home, thanks to the generosity of a local business and the wider community.

Business owner Sue Clarke, who owns Sherborne communications agency, Wordshop, launched an online fundraising site at the end of 2020 to help raise funds to purchase an additional interactive digital tablet for the home.

The freestanding device contains touch-screen interactive games and activities, plus interactive experiences such as ‘train driving’ and nostalgic dancing and music videos. It is also helps keep residents connected with family via Zoom and Skype calls, providing the home with an extra device that residents can use.

Having ‘gone live’ in October, Sue’s efforts attracted support from a number of local business and community members, finally reaching the total in November. The home has since received delivery of the touch-screen device, providing residents with an additional form of stimulation and engagement.

Home Manager Molly Burrows said “The interactive table is a fabulous addition to our home and we are so incredibly grateful for Sue’s passion in fundraising for our residents; with her connections, expertise and enthusiasm, we have been able to purchase this additional tablet for everyone to enjoy.

“On behalf of all of our residents here at The Old Vicarage, I would like to thank everyone who has supported Sue’s online fundraising.”

The Old Vicarage is part of the Healthcare Homes Group and is based in Leigh, Sherborne. For more information on the range of services provided, call 01935 873033.

Pip Rich