Camellia House Grand Opening Success
The Grand Opening of the Home Instead Memory Café in the newly refurbished Camellia House of Wentworth Woodhouse was a triumph. The celebration started with an uplifting and moving performance by the Singing for the Soul choir from Parson Cross Forum; their powerful finale of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ left very few dry eyes in the house.
Tea and delicious cake were served, and Wentworth Woodhouse staff shared some of the history of the Grade II listed building, as well as giving attendees the chance to plant their own flower seeds and create camellia blooms out of egg boxes.
Our vision is to create a safe space for all, especially those living with dementia, to experience a bespoke social occasion in the exclusive location of the Camellia House and reduce isolation amongst older adults in Sheffield and Rotherham.
There were beaming smiles on everyone’s faces as people sang along with the choir and made new friends. Some of those in attendance rarely get the chance to go out, and it was a joy to watch how animated they became as they chatted in groups amongst the beautiful camellia trees. Halfway through the performance, one client asked if she could immediately be booked onto the next Memory Café session as the experience was resonating so positively with her!
“The opening of our Memory Café was not just an event; it represented compassion, warmth, and connection,” said Alison Taylor, General Manager. “With the wonderful choir’s heartfelt melodies echoing around the Camellia House, and the historical learnings about the building and its history, we witnessed the power of music to uplift spirits, bridge gaps, and create a beautiful feeling in a fantastic location.”
With the Grand Opening being such a huge success, we are so excited to see what the café’s over the rest of the year will bring. We have several more planned in partnership with Wentworth Woodhouse, ranging from the local coal mining history to seasonal crafts.
Future Sessions...
Book here for the May session!