HICA Care Homes Unite for Annual Gardening Competition
In a burst of vibrant colour and green-fingered enthusiasm, residents and care home staff across HICA services have once again come together to showcase their green thumbs in the eagerly awaited HICA in Bloom competition.
Every summer, HICA Group’s care homes embark on a friendly contest, pitting their gardening talents against one another. This year, the majority of the company’s residential care homes participated, and after an intense four-day judging process, five outstanding finalists emerged.
The deserving contenders moving on to the second round of judging are The Anchorage, The Grange, Raleigh Court, Red House, and The Wolds Care Centre. These were judged to have expertly demonstrated their commitment to creating beautiful and nurturing garden spaces.
Round two of the judging process has now begun and the winner will be announced at the much-anticipated annual SHINE Ball in September, an event attended by service users from all HICA services. This year’s ball has a ‘Royal’ theme, adding an extra touch of grandeur to the celebrations.
Gardening has proven to be an effective and therapeutic activity for older individuals dealing with dementia. Engaging in gardening projects provides residents with a sense of purpose, allowing them to focus their efforts and continuously alleviate symptoms. It’s heartwarming to witness the profound impact this activity has on their well-being.
The final judgment will be in the capable hands of HICA board members Carole Morgan and Jackie Bateman and Executive PA/ Housing Manager Julia Woodcock, ensuring fairness and expertise in selecting the deserving winner.
Terry Peel, the CEO of HICA Group, expressed his delight with being a judge in the first round of the competition. “We are thrilled to witness such active participation from our service users in this competition. Gardening has proven to be a powerful remedy, easing the symptoms of dementia by providing residents with a positive focus. Many of our residents cherished gardening during their time in their own homes, and observing their reconnection with this passion brings immense contentment and tranquility as they lend a helping hand in the garden.
The HICA in Bloom competition is a perennial highlight, where each home shows great enthusiasm and creativity in crafting delightful outside spaces for residents to enjoy.
This year’s entries showcased a remarkable calibre, boasting not only visually captivating gardens but also incorporating sensory areas and interactive activities tailored to cater to residents’ unique needs.”
