How We Help Residents Stay Connected to the Mansfield Community

At Lidder Care, we firmly believe that maintaining strong connections with the local community is vital for our residents’ wellbeing and quality of life. Our care homes in Mansfield aren’t just places where people live, they’re caring communities that actively engage with the wider Mansfield area, creating meaningful relationships and experiences for everyone involved.

The Importance of Community Connection for Older Adults

Social connection is a fundamental human need at any age, but it becomes particularly crucial as we grow older. Research consistently shows that older adults who maintain strong community ties enjoy better physical health, improved mental wellbeing, and a greater sense of purpose and belonging.

For many of our residents, Mansfield and the local area has been their home for decades. They’ve built lives, raised families, and contributed to the local community in countless ways.

Moving into a care home shouldn’t mean losing these important connections, which is why we’ve developed numerous initiatives to help our residents remain active members of the Mansfield community they know and love.

Our Community Engagement Initiatives

Newgate Lodge Community Café

Our recently launched Community Café at Newgate Lodge Care Home has quickly become a cornerstone of our community engagement efforts. Held every third Thursday of the month from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, this welcoming space brings together residents, families, and members of the wider Mansfield community.

The café offers complimentary refreshments in a warm, friendly environment where people can forge new friendships and strengthen existing ones. It’s not just about providing tea and cake, it’s about creating a space where meaningful connections flourish across generations.

As Aman Lidder, Head of Operations at Lidder Care, explains: “This initiative isn’t just about providing a cup of coffee; it’s about bringing the community into the home, ensuring those who may feel isolated or lonely have a welcoming space to connect with others.”

Local Partnerships and Collaborations

We’ve established strong partnerships with various Mansfield organisations to enrich our residents’ lives:

• Mansfield Town Football Club: Our corporate sponsorship of “The Stags” has created exciting opportunities for our residents, many of whom are lifelong supporters. Regular match outings are a highlight for many, with some residents even having played for the club in their younger days.
• Mansfield Schools: Our intergenerational programme brings together our residents and local schoolchildren for regular activities, from reading sessions to craft projects. These meaningful interactions benefit both groups, with residents sharing their life experiences and wisdom while enjoying the energy and enthusiasm of the younger generation.
• Local Artists and Musicians: We regularly host Mansfield-based artists and musicians who provide entertainment and creative workshops for our residents, keeping them connected to the local cultural scene.

Exploring Mansfield and Beyond

Being part of the community means getting out and about, which is why we organise regular excursions to local attractions and events:

• Mansfield Town Centre: Just a three-minute drive from Newgate Lodge, regular trips to the town centre allow residents to shop, enjoy a meal at local cafés, or simply watch the world go by in familiar surroundings.
• Sherwood Pines: These beautiful woodland areas offer accessible trails that accommodate residents of varying mobility levels, providing opportunities to enjoy nature and fresh air.
• Mansfield Museum: Regular visits to this award-winning museum keep our residents connected to the rich industrial history of the area, with changing exhibitions providing new experiences throughout the year.
• Hardwick Hall: This stunning Elizabethan country house and its beautiful gardens make for a perfect day out, allowing residents to enjoy historical architecture and landscaped grounds.

As Laura Quince, Home Manager at Newgate Lodge Care Home in Mansfield, notes: “We know how important it is for our residents to maintain their connection with the places they’ve known and loved throughout their lives. Our regular outings to familiar Mansfield landmarks help preserve these important ties.”

Bringing the Community In

Community engagement works both ways, which is why we regularly welcome local groups and individuals into our homes:

• Volunteer Programmes: Our dedicated local volunteers bring additional warmth, skills, and companionship to our residents, forming meaningful relationships that enrich everyone involved.
• Community Events: From summer fairs to Christmas markets, our homes host seasonal events that bring the wider community together in celebration.
• Professional Services: Local hairdressers, chiropodists, and other service providers regularly visit our homes, helping residents maintain important routines while catching up on local news.

Digital Connections

We also help our residents stay connected through technology:

• Video Calls: Our staff assist residents in making video calls to friends and family who may not be able to visit in person.
• Social Media: With support from our team, interested residents can keep up with local news and events via social media platforms.
• Digital Skills Workshops: Regular sessions help residents develop confidence in using technology to maintain their community connections.

The Impact on Our Residents

The positive effects of these community connections are evident in our residents’ wellbeing and happiness. Family members frequently comment on the difference these initiatives make to their loved ones’ lives.

Martin, a son of a resident said on carehome.co.uk, “When we chose a care home for Mum we felt Newgate Lodge stood out from the rest in the Mansfield area, many years on from that decision we can honestly say the same is true today. The home is so well designed with a number of lounges/dining areas, rather than a single large space, making it feel like your own home.” 

Looking to the Future

As we continue to develop our community engagement programmes, we’re constantly seeking new ways to strengthen these vital connections. Upcoming initiatives include:

• A community garden project in partnership with local horticultural groups
• A reminiscence programme capturing residents’ memories of Mansfield through the decades
• Expanded partnerships with local businesses to create more inclusive community spaces

Join Our Community

Whether you’re considering care options for yourself or a loved one, or you’re interested in getting involved with our community initiatives as a volunteer or partner, we’d love to hear from you.

At Lidder Care, we’re proud to be an active part of the Mansfield community, creating meaningful connections that enhance the lives of our residents and contribute to a more inclusive and supportive local area for everyone.

For more information about our community engagement programmes or to discuss how you can get involved, please contact us on 0330 223 6600 or email info@liddercare.com.