North London-based care provider and charity, The Fremantle Trust, celebrated Care Home Open Day with a series of events across the region.

The national awareness day focuses on the importance of connecting care homes with their local communities to develop long-term relationships.

Children from Little Leo’s nursery in South Barnet visited Apthorp Care Centre in New Southgate on Friday for an art session, while later in the afternoon visitors were invited to take part in poetry readings with residents and enjoyed tea and cakes.

On Saturday, jazz singer Kerri entertained visitors while they had a guided tour of the service and in the afternoon residents, employees and visitors took part in a Royal tea party to mark the Queen’s official birthday.

At Meadowside care home in North Finchley visitors were invited to get active with residents for a ‘fun and fitness’ class with instructor, Nora Joubeir, followed by a buffet featuring tempting dishes from around the Commonwealth.

Visitors to Dell Field Court in Finchley joined a sing along on Friday morning with cakes and a glass of fizz. In the afternoon, the care home’s dedicated community space was transformed into a mini cinema with films, popcorn and candy floss for everyone to enjoy.

Commenting on the events, Jo Head, regional director of older people’s services at The Fremantle Trust, said:

Care Home Open Day was a great opportunity to welcome visitors by inviting them to sample a range of fun activities. By building strong neighbourhood connections we are able to develop lasting relationships which ensure our care homes are at the heart of the communities they serve.