THERAPY alpacas visited residents of a care home near Worcester as part of a sixth birthday celebration.
Fernhill House Care Home, in Fernhill Heath, arranged for three alpacas to come and visit residents as part of the home's birthday celebrations on Monday, April 24.
The care home used the alpacas as part of the regular animal therapy programme available to residents at the home.
The care home said that animal therapy provides emotional support and a calming influence on the residents.
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Andrew McIntyre, general manager of Fernhill House, said it was fun to see the joy on people's faces when the alpacas arrived.
He said: “We are thrilled to have celebrated our sixth anniversary with the local community. It’s always great to see both new and familiar faces gather to celebrate the success of the home, particularly given the fact that such opportunities were limited during the pandemic.
“It was delightful to see everyone enjoying the live music, cocktails, and the banquet. It was also a lot of fun to see the joy on people’s faces when the alpacas arrived, especially from those who had never seen one before."
The event was the care home's first since the pandemic, with residents, family members and former staff members invited to join.
A buffet was provided by the home's in-house chefs and cocktails were served by the home’s bar staff.
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There was also a live performance from Becky Gosling, who sang a variety of popular hits from a range of eras.
The event was also attended by representatives from Age UK who offered guidance and advice to people living in the local community who are looking for help to arrange care for themselves or a loved one.
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Mr McIntyre said: "I would like to congratulate the nine members of staff who have been with us for the last six years. It was great to show them how much we and the residents at Fernhill House appreciate their hard work.
“Everyone was impressed with our bar and kitchen staff, who provided excellent food and drinks.
“I also extend my thanks to the team at Age UK, who were able to give their thoughts to those seeking advice regarding their care situation or that of a loved one."
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