Residents from Kingfishers enjoyed a memorable day out at Sculpture by the Lakes near Dorchester, thanks to a special wish trip organised for June, Daphne, and Kay.
The trio were joined by members of the Kingfishers team for the visit to the 26-acre sculpture park, set among lakes and landscaped gardens.

The group began their day with lunch overlooking the water, where they watched swans gliding past in the sunshine. Afterwards, they explored the park’s woodland pathways, discovering striking sculptures at every turn.
June described the day as “worth the long journey,” adding: “We all had such a wonderful time.”

Companionship Team Leader Rose said: “It was a fantastic outing that brought so much joy. The sculptures sparked plenty of conversation and everyone loved the chance to enjoy the beautiful setting together.”

The residents shared highlights and stories on their journey home, making it clear the trip had left a lasting impression.

On Monday 7th July, three residents from Kingfishers care home in New Milton took part in a specially organised day trip to the Isle of Wight, each with a personal wish to fulfil.
The visit, arranged by the care team, combined meaningful stops that reflected the individual interests and life stories of residents Alan, Gill and Mollie.
For 99-year-old Alan, the trip marked an emotional return to his birthplace. His wish was to revisit St Mildred’s Church, where he once stood as best man at a close friend’s wedding. “It brought back so many memories—I never thought I’d come back here again,” he said.

Gill, a long-time history enthusiast, had always wanted to visit Osborne House, the former royal residence of Queen Victoria. She described the visit as “more than just a day out—it was a shared experience of joy, nostalgia, and friendship,” adding, “A huge thank you to Rose and Sarah for bringing these wishes to life.”
Mollie, who enjoys both travel and heritage, embraced the whole day—from the ferry crossing to exploring royal history and the final stop at St Mildred’s Church. “The visit to the church was the cherry on top!” she said.

Companion Team Leader Rose, who supported the visit, said: “Interpreting and responding to residents’ personal wishes is a key part of what we do. These kinds of experiences offer meaningful engagement, connection, and a chance to revisit places that hold real emotional value.”

The trip is part of Kingfishers’ ongoing work to support resident wellbeing through individualised activity planning and community-based outings.

Two centenarian residents from Kingfishers Care Home in New Milton enjoyed a day at the seaside, thanks to a specially arranged trip to the coast.
Pat, aged 102, had expressed a wish to visit the beach, and staff were only too happy to help make it happen. Fellow resident Kay, who recently turned 100, was also invited to join the outing. The two women spent the day relaxing by the sea, with a beach hut hired for their exclusive use.

The visit included a stroll along the promenade and refreshments from a nearby café, all in the comfort of warm, sunny weather.
Companionship Team Leader Rose Arcellana said the day was a memorable one for everyone involved.
“Being able to grant wishes like this is one of the most rewarding parts of our work,” she said.

“Pat and Kay were delighted to spend the day by the sea. It was a chance to enjoy the fresh air, soak up the views, and simply relax in good company.
The weather was perfect, and it was clear just how much it meant to both of them.”
Staff at Kingfishers said trips like this one are part of their wider commitment to providing personalised experiences that support residents’ wellbeing and quality of life.