Bringing Joy through Cricket: Empowering Lives in Care Homes

Bringing Joy through Cricket: Empowering Lives in Care Homes
In the heart of care homes, a remarkable initiative is taking place amidst the warmth and companionship. We are delivering weekly accessible cricket sessions for the residents, and the impact has been nothing short of incredible. Over the past six months, more than 600 attendees have experienced the joy of cricket, and the results speak volumes across places like Riverside's St Antony's Court, Walker, Newcastle and Gainford Group's Lindisfarne Care Home, Throckley, Newcastle.

Learning and Growth

Our cricket sessions have been transformative. An astounding 86% of participants have learned new skills and information. These sessions provide a platform for continuous learning, proving that age is no barrier to acquiring new knowledge and abilities.

Relaxation and Happiness

Cricket has proven to be a source of relaxation and joy. An impressive 57% of participants feel more relaxed after the sessions, while a resounding 86% report feeling happier. It's heartwarming to witness the positive impact that a game can have on emotional well-being.

Physical Well-Being

Our cricket sessions aren't just about fun but also about health. A remarkable 28% of participants have experienced improved physical health. The gentle movements and exercises associated with cricket have contributed to enhanced physical well-being, with 28% also reporting feeling stronger. As one participant eloquently put it, "Very good for the legs."

Recommendations

The enthusiasm for our cricket sessions is palpable. Every single participant, a full 100%, recommends these sessions to their friends and family members. The sense of community and shared enjoyment fostered during these sessions is undeniably infectious. As one participant shared, "It was a good laugh, and we all enjoyed ourselves. The staff were really helpful and cheerful."

Inclusivity and Diversity

Our cricket sessions are genuinely accessible to all. We work with people with cognitive impairments, individuals in wheelchairs, and those who use walkers. Inclusivity is at the core of our mission, ensuring that everyone can participate and enjoy the game regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.

And it's worth noting that our oldest client, at the incredible age of 97, proves that the love for cricket knows no age boundaries.

Heartfelt Testimonials

The impact of our cricket sessions can best be summed up in the words of our participants:

- "Good fun mixing with others, helpers very helpful."
- "It helps all of us."
- "I enjoyed playing it."

Even the manager recognises the value of our sessions. Heather, St Antony's Court manager, commented, "An excellent project which has built confidence and social skills. Friendly staff as well."