Popular Care

Residents at Darlington’s Wilton House care home had a hoot of a time when three owls visited as part of its packed activities programme.

The owls from Durham-based Gosling Raptors - a tropical screech owl, a rare black barn owl and a European eagle owl – visited some less mobile residents in their rooms, before heading over to the communal lounge to spend time with others.

Residents and staff were given the opportunity to interact with the owls, petting their soft feathers and learning fascinating facts about the majestic creatures from the Gosling Raptors’ experienced handlers. The event provided a unique opportunity for engagement and sensory stimulation, promoting the well-being of Wilton House care home's residents.

Dawn Webber, activities coordinator at the home, said: “The residents absolutely loved it. It was amazing to see the smiles on their faces and hear them laughing. They all had a chance to hold and stroke them. Even the bed bound really enjoyed the visit.

“We've had a couple of people who aren't verbal who've said things like 'oh my lovely' and 'keep, keep'. It's been a fantastic success!"

A resident, Janet, said: “I don’t think I had a favourite because they're all so individual and funny.”

Sarah Rose, bird handler at Gosling Raptors, said: “Everyone has loved it and some even came down from upstairs so they could see the big owl. It's so nice when you see residents that don't normally speak, but they'll speak to some of the birds, and that to the staff is worth its weight in gold.”

Wilton House, which is operated by Popular Care, has an extensive schedule of activities designed to keep residents active and engaged. It includes trips out, visits from entertainers, exercise classes, as well as arts and crafts workshops. Wilton House is rated as Good by the Care Quality Commission, the social care regulator.

ENDS

NEWS RELEASE: ISSUED ON BEHALF OF POPULAR CARE

CONTACT: Caroline Walker on 01325 363436

Notes to editors:

Popular Care is a care home provider established in 2006 with homes across the North East of England and Scotland. It operates four homes, caring for those in need of residential, nursing, respite and palliative care with additional experience in learning difficulties, and specialist illnesses such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s.

(https://www.popularcare.co.uk/)