Residents at MHA Abbey Park in Coventry can now enjoy a tipple down at their ‘local’, after the care home transformed one of its lounge areas into a traditional pub.
‘The Abbey Arms’ provides a space for residents to meet and socialise on a weekly basis, while taking part in the home’s regular schedule of activities. A gentleman’s club, a ladies club and dominos tournaments al take place at the pub.
While the bar is not licensed to serve alcohol, staff co-ordinate when weekly activities are taking place to ensure drinks are brought in and the authentic pub atmosphere comes to life.
The home will also be using the space to build closer links with the local community by opening their dominos tournaments up to other care homes in the surrounding area.
Home manager, Tina Thompson, says: “We initially wanted to create a new environment for residents to enjoy, which would give them a change of scene and a place to meet up. Having asked both residents and staff for their thoughts, the idea of the pub progressed from there.
“The pub is proving a fantastic addition to our home and has become a real focal point for everyone. We’re really pleased with the positive feedback we’ve had.”
Resident Jack Payne says: “It brings me back to my time in the Navy – when the gentleman’s club is on, we all sit around having a pint and a chat while playing dominos and cards.”
Staff at MHA Abbey Park are already busy planning their next big project – they are looking to extend the existing shop, so they have more space and can allow less able residents to experience a trip to the shops!
