Activities at Newlands
A Meaningful Part of Everyday Life
At Newlands, activities are an important and valued part of everyday life. They are designed to support physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, while also reflecting the interests, choices, and personalities of the people who live here. Activities help create a sense of purpose, enjoyment, and connection, all within a relaxed, homely environment.
A Resident-Led Programme
Our activities programme is led by a dedicated Activities Co-ordinator, who works closely alongside our care staff to deliver a varied weekly programme. Residents are actively involved in shaping what we offer, and we regularly gather and review feedback to ensure activities continue to reflect what residents enjoy and just as importantly, what they don’t.
Group Activities and Shared Interests
Many residents enjoy taking part in group activities such as baking and cooking clubs, weekly quizzes, creative activities, and music and movement sessions. We incorporate physical activities such as yoga and armchair exercises, and on games days residents choose a board game and enjoy a bit of friendly competition.
In warmer months, gardening and growing clubs are popular, and residents love spending time outdoors soaking up the sunshine, watching wildlife, and enjoying the garden. Residents also enjoy discussion and debate sessions, which are often lively and engaging, while on other days they prefer more relaxed “butty and blether” sessions where memories and stories from days gone by are shared.
Outings and Community Connections
Small group outings are an important part of life at Newlands. Staff support residents to visit local shops, cafés, lochs, the library, and other places of interest, helping them stay connected to the local community and continue doing the things they enjoy.
Music plays a big role in the home, and residents particularly enjoy visits from musical entertainers. We also offer animal therapy sessions, which may include therapy dogs or more unusual visitors such as Zoolab. Intergenerational activities are encouraged, and we welcome community groups into the home, including nurseries, Girl Guides, dancers, and performers from local clubs.
One-to-One Time
Not everyone enjoys group activities, and we fully respect this. Some residents prefer quieter, one-to-one time with our Activities Co-ordinator or care staff, whether that’s looking through old photographs, chatting, or enjoying a favourite game such as dominoes. These moments are just as valued and meaningful.
A Relaxed Weekly Rhythm
Planned activities take place from Monday to Friday, allowing weekends to remain relaxed and flexible. Many residents enjoy spending weekends with visiting family and friends or going out together, just as they would if they were living at home.
Above all, activities at Newlands are about choice, comfort, and enjoyment. Whether residents choose to join in, observe, or spend time quietly doing something they love, life at Newlands reflects the feel of a real home, warm, welcoming, and shaped by the people who live here.
