Community spirit week
Community Spirit Week is a joint initiative between Bupa Care Services and Community Connections and is designed to tackle the issue of isolation and loneliness in older people. Since its launch in 2003, 375 Community Spirit Week events have taken place, with the record number of 165 homes taking part in 2006.
Feedback shows that 94 percent of care homes agree that Community Spirit Week is a worthwhile and enjoyable experience for both residents and their visitors, and 90 percent believe the project helps to increase the home's involvement with individuals and groups in the community.
What is involved?
Community Spirit Week occurs annually for one week in October. Bupa care homes open their doors to older people who live on their own to meet the residents and join in some fun activities including musical afternoons, quizzes, cream teas and traditional roast dinners.
Community Connections and Care Services marketing fund Community Spirit Week. Each participating home receives a grant of £150 to be used for ingredients, a gift for each visitor or musical entertainment.