Exalon Oaks Blog

The Race For Life

2012-01-05T13:18:00.000Z

Jane has decided to take part in the race for life this year in memory of her mother. She will be running/walking 5km in aid of cancer research on Sunday the 24the of June. If anyone would like to sponsor her please get in touch. All support is much appreciated. In the mean time, training commences!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

2011-12-22T12:22:00.003Z

May Christmas bring a special warmth to your heart,

And leave behind many wonderful memories.

Happy Christmas!!

from

Service Users and staff at The Oaks

Mulled wine and minced pie.....

2011-12-20T16:00:00.005Z

And here are some more photos from the Mulled wine and minced pie party which we found. They are so great that we felt we should share them with everyone else.

Mulled wine and minced pie morning!

2011-12-16T11:59:00.001Z

Any excuse is good for a party, especially before Christmas. To help all of us get into the Christmas Celebration spirit we organised "mulled wine and minced pie morning" last Thursday.

Thank you to all guests, friends and families who joined us that morning.

Great time was had by all! And here are some photos as a proof.

A Fond Farewell

2011-11-25T10:31:00.000Z

We are sad to say that Martha and Graham will be temporarily leaving us soon, each going on their own expedition of the world. Graham is going exploring in India, and Martha is working the ski season in the French Alps. While we wait for the exciting tales upon their return, they will be very much missed in their absence.

A warm welcome to the new staff

2011-11-04T17:50:00.001Z

A warm welcome to Jess and Punam who have recently joined that staff team at the Oaks! We look forward to getting to know you. Good luck!!

Happy Halloween!!

2011-10-31T17:47:00.000Z

As the eve of Halloween dawned, the guys got to work decorating the home in honour of the supersticous celebrations. Ghostly bodies hung from the light fittings, while mummies and vampires hid expectantly in the corners of the windows. Bert and Fred (two eerily insane looking pumpkins) greeted guests at the front door as a witch flew through the sky. We celebrated Halloween with a small buffet party and were joined by Anne and her friend Catherine, as invited by John Morris. We chatted the night away, leaving little food to be found. I hope I'm not jinxing it when I say I think a spookily wonderful time was had by all...

Mark In The Kitchen Again

2011-10-14T18:58:00.000+01:00

Mark has been at work in the kitchen again to prepare some dinner for all the guys. I'm told he enjoyed a cup of tea in one of our new almost-a-pint sized mugs whilst tossing the stir fry in the other hand. Yet he and John James promtly had a delicious meal on the table.

John James the Entrepreneur Baker

2011-10-03T15:10:00.003+01:00

John James is not only the Oaks support worker but also an entrepreneur baker! John began his baking as a hobby back in February, making simple pastries. He has since progressed to extravagant cup cakes. He has frequently delighted us all by bringing in his experimental creations for everyone to try and has also baked his way into the world of show biz! Recently he created the cup cake now know as 'Cake Fat' which went on to be the official cup cake of comedy tribute band Take Fat. John has also given cup cakes to help the National Deaf Society and often gives his cakes to the homeless.

John's cakes can be seen at www.stamfordcakery.webs.com

Ellen Earns a Treat

2011-09-27T15:41:00.000+01:00

Ellen has had a brilliant week, always keeping busy and upbeat. Now to top it off she has earnt enough stars to get her reward. This time she has chosen to go to Worcester Citizen's Swimming Pool with Beth. She came back extremely pleased with herself, telling me that she had swum back and forth not 10, not 20, but 30 times! Ellen had said she is going to go more often from now on, not only to get fit but also because she enjoys it so much.

Jane rustles up a roast!

2011-09-23T15:39:00.001+01:00

Jane has spent an afternoon pottering around in the kitchen with Charlotte, listening to music on the radio and drinking a coffee whilst casually putting a roast gammon dinner together. She peeled the spuds, copped up the carrots, and had all the veg prepared and ready to be steamed in good time, and was just keeping a close eye on the roasties and the onion gravy when I went to see her.

Dinner was on the table punctually at 5.30pm, unfortunately just in time to tickle my senses and make my mouth water before I left. But the reviews I heard were excellent. I just hope this isn't the only one Jane cooks!!

Mark and Jane on Tour

2011-09-19T15:38:00.001+01:00

Jane, Mark, John James and Maureen have had a fantastic time on holiday in Brean.

Since action speaks louder than words, have a look at some photos of the things guys where doing during their holidays.

Ellen at Work

2011-09-12T18:58:00.003+01:00

Ellen has recently started volunteering at a coffee shop in one of Malvern's local surgeries. Ellen says she really enjoys her job and loves talking to customers. We all at The Oaks think that Ellen makes the best cup of tea.

Ellen's Moving Up

2011-08-23T18:45:00.000+01:00

Ellen has proudly announced that she will be moving up a group at her DBT training sessions. This comes after a special visit from Sean Slater who has been to inform her personally. Despite knowing that this will mean harder work, she and the staff are ready for the challenge!

A Warm Welcome

2011-08-16T18:33:00.000+01:00

A warm welcome to Peter who has recently joined us at the Oaks. Already we are growing fond and think you will fit in really well. We hope for a long and happy future together!

Holidays, Holidays and even more Holidays

2011-08-11T08:42:00.001+01:00

Mark and Jane have been thinking about taking a weeks break at the end of this Summer. One of the top places on their list is Ocean Lodge Holiday Park in Brean, Somerset. The park is in a beautifully quiet, secluded location, with its own swimming pool and within easy walking distance of the picturesque 7 mile stretch of golden sandy coast line that joins Brean to Berrow and Burnham-on-sea.

A Brand New John

2011-08-08T08:35:00.001+01:00

John and Martha have spent a day doing some serious shopping in Worcester. The manager of Marks and Spencers even personally said she couldn't wait to see them again. John has invested in a very sleek, smart dinner jacket and several new pairs of trousers (much needed since he has been doing so well on his diet). He also sought out his own camera to take with him on his special trips and holidays, and even possibly for some day to day creative pottering. And as if that wasn't enough, they finished the day in one of John's favourite cafes 'Cafe Rouge' for dinner. Here are some of the photos.

A Day Out in Ledbury

2011-08-01T08:35:00.000+01:00

Ellen, Jane and Mark have spent a day visiting the traditional market town of Ledbury, where the original 17th century market hall still stands. Although the weather wasn't great they all had a good time. Ellen and Jane loved all the small, vintage cloths shops and Mark was happy to see so many cafes to stop by for a cup of tea.

Great Witley Court

2011-07-25T08:29:00.006+01:00

Ellen and Jane have spent a morning drinking coffee and eating an icecream, absorbing the sunshine in a glass, conservatory style cafe, surrounded by the

magnificent gardens of Great Witley Court. Afterwards they wondered around some of the flowers all in bloom, and relaxed on a bench in the shade, chatting away and taking in the scenery. All agreed that the trip was defintely to be repeated.

Ellen steams ahead

2011-07-12T19:00:00.001+01:00

Ellen has enjoyed a beautiful sunny day making a round trip from Worcester's North Key to Tewksbury and back by steam boat. She went with Claire as her chosen reward for collecting so many stars for her chart. Together they shared a picnic, making the most of the British Summer weather. From the raving reviews were heard when she finally came home, it sounds like this is a day trip to remember. She said it was one of the best things she had done, and she would definitely go again.

Ellen and Claire where so excited about their trip that, unfortunately, they forgot to take any photos. Instead here is a photo of Ellen with her star chart.

Jane's Jewellery

2011-07-05T18:58:00.005+01:00

Jane has spent the afternoon working with a huge array of different beads with the help of Maddy's expertise. Jane is becoming a dab hand at shaping the metal with the pliers nowadays. By the end of the afternoon she had made herself a gorgeous necklace to join her collection, and some beautiful colourful pieces of art work too.

And here are some other beautiful pieces from Jane hand made collections:

John on tour

2011-06-28T19:00:00.000+01:00

John has been busy making travelling plans once again. He hopes to revisit some of his roots both in Cardiff where his grandmother lived, and in Liverpool where he grew up as a boy and has many fond memories. The photos are of Cardiff Castle, one of the main attractions of Cardiff to John, and of the ferry crossing the Liverpool Mersey, a trip John is becoming very accustomed to and looks forward to making again.

Mark spoils us again!

2011-06-21T18:59:00.008+01:00

Mark has been at it again in the kitchen! He worked with John James to break chocolate into a bowl, melt it, and mix in the cornflakes and marshmallows. The mixture was then left to set in the cake tins, and a few hours later they had chocolate-cornflake-marshmallow cakes! Yet another triumph in the kitchen, and once more we are left in anticipation of the next one.

A Weekend in Blackpool

2011-06-14T08:28:00.000+01:00

Ellen and Jane have spent the weekend at an extensive caravan park, Cala Gran, near Blackpool with Claire and Martha. They made the most of the beautiful sunny weather on the Saturday by spending the day in Blackpool Town Centre picking up bargains, and basking in the sun whilst eating lunch. Then come Sunday (when the heavens parted) Jane spent the day at Sandcastle Water Park - the largest water park in the UK where the water is heated at tropical temperatures. After conquring the slides and the rapids she sat under the palm trees and flamingos to eat her lunch. Ellen on the other hand chose to stay on the park, making use of their swimming pool with Claire and enjoying their beautiful Sunday carvery in the restaurant next door. By the end of the weekend everyone said they had had a great time. We can't wait to see what they get up to next year!

Jane's new hair cut!

2011-05-30T10:03:00.004+01:00

Jane's holiday to Blackpool is coming up soon and as a part of preparation for the trip Jane decided to have a hair cut. Over the years spent at The Oaks Jane has had a lot of different hair styles and luckily a lot of photos taken therefore she sat with her key worker, Maddy and looked through the photos to choose the right style. After this Jane booked an appointment at her favourite hair salon. Here you can see Jane before her hair cut and after.

Ellen's cooking

2011-05-23T09:05:00.001+01:00

Ellen's cooking and baking skills are developing immensely. Ellen says she likes cooking but even more she likes to eat what she cooks. Ellen has a "shop and cook" sessions every week but Ellen is keen to help out in the kitchen any other time. Everyone at The Oaks agrees that Ellen has a real talent for cooking.

Cafe Rouge

2011-05-18T09:25:00.000+01:00

Here are photos of Cafe Rouge, where John and Martha ate dinner on their first night in London. John quotes this as his joint first favourite place he went to in London (the other being the West End's Palladium) because rouge is the French word for red, and almost everything about this cafe was red - and red is John's favourite colour. Coincidentally, most of the hotel's interior was also red, and they conveniently gave us generous (red) discount cards for Cafe Rouge. I would like to have said that we had gone as far as carefully planning this beforehand, but unfortunately I can't. It is down to a series of lucky coincidences that made John's highlight of the trip.

Re: John in the West End

2011-05-17T09:18:00.009+01:00

John and Martha have returned from their explorations through London, where both had a brilliant time. They have been on a traditional red, double decker, open topped tour bus, which took them all around London (including Buckingham Palace).

Here are some photos of all of the amazing places John and Martha have visited.

The Oaks' New Photographer

2011-05-14T09:04:00.009+01:00

Jane has been working hard towards earning her ASDAN qualification. She has even taken on an additional, optional module for which she has chosen to complete a photography project. Jane loves most things creative, such as drawing, glass painting and making jewellery, and often spends a whole afternoon working on them with some music on in the background, wanting to do nothing else. Here are some photos of Jane taking photos.

Tristan

2011-05-08T21:05:00.006+01:00

Martina has brought her beautiful baby boy Tristan to meet us all. Ellen and John took turns to hold him, Ellen rocking him to the music and giving him a big kiss on the cheek, and John quickly working out that he was born on a Friday. The visit was over all too quickly, but we hope we will be seeing them again soon!

Yet Another Reason for a Party!

2011-05-01T21:40:00.002+01:00

On Friday the 29th of April, we too were glued to the screen watching Kate Middleton walk the isle, and we too thought this was a very good excuse to have a party. So yet again we grabbed the opportunity to crack open the drinks and put on a luxurious buffet, eating crisps and cake until we had no choice but to stay sat down watching more wedding. A royal wedding only comes once in a blue moon after all. Though who knows, we may have the chance for another party if someone reigns in Prince Harry.

John in the West End

2011-04-14T21:28:00.002+01:00

John has made the final plans for his trip to London's West End. There he will be watching the Wizard of Oz, starring BBC's smash hit 'Over the Rainbow' winner, Danielle Hope as Dorothy. He and Martha have spent much time searching together for hotels and have carefully chosen the Royal Guest House in Hammersmith, and have made big sight seeing plans, including Buckingham Palace and Big Ben. Both are waiting in anticipation. Watch this space!

These are some of the photos from John's last trip to London in 2009.

We recon the photos from the upcoming trip will be even better!!!

Jane's Beautiful Toes

2011-04-01T22:06:00.002+01:00

On one very ordinary afternoon, Martha was spending some time with Jane pampering her feet and hands. After moisturising and a massage Jane received a pedicure and a manicure, which turned out so well that we felt we had to take a photo of the success. And so, for that reason, here you see a photo of Jane's beautiful toes.

John's Travels

2011-03-25T08:10:00.006Z

John has been working hard on learning to how catch a bus to and from Great Malvern.

He has written out all the steps involved and has discussed them thoroughly, and after all their preperation, Martha supported him on his first trip. They focussed on learning how to read the bus timetable and remembering where the bus stops are, and what to do when something unexpected occurs, such as the bus being late or diverted. John did very well, picking it up very quickly. They finished off with a spot of shopping at the retail park, where John achieved finding most things (from flannels and hankies to t-shirts) all in his favourite colour red. A lovely day was had by both, as John put it himself.

Lunch at Ellen's

2011-03-17T20:55:00.006Z

This time it was Ellen's turn to get busy in the kitchen, cooking lunch for herself and a lucky select few others. She shopped for the ingredients then went about making leek and potato soup from scratch. The following is a piece Ellen wrote about her experience.

"I made some soup with Beth. I chopped up the leeks and the onions and peeled some potatoes. I cooked them and I put water in it and I put it in bowls when it was cooked. I gave some to Maureen and Maggie and Beth and Martha. I ate it for my lunch with a roll and I liked it."

Here are some photos to evidence that:

Theatre Trip

2011-03-10T14:08:00.001Z

Ellen has been with Martha, and Jane with her good friend Roger, to a showing of the Eighties Mania at Malvern Festival Theatre. The show was spectacular, consisting of every eighties hit you might possibly know, and a new performing outfit for each one. As the creative light show reached it's peak, red balloons fell from the ceiling (to the sound of Nena Cherry's '99 red balloons'), and they danced and sang the night away along with the rest of the crowd - Ellen having first enjoyed a Malibu and lemonade. We did not finish making our away home until 10.30pm, though it was felt that the evening had flown by!

A Warm Welcome

2011-03-03T14:08:00.002Z

A warm welcome to Alex, who joined us at a couple of days ago in the Transition Flat.

We hope that you are looking forward to work with us as much as we are looking forward to work with you!

Good luck Alex!!!

Goodbye and Good Luck

2011-02-28T10:32:00.004Z

Nicholas has made his final weekend with us one to remember with his luxurious buffet leaving party. He invited family, friends and all the guys at the Oaks, who were all impressed by his culinary efforts. Then on Monday, we said our goodbyes, wishing him the best of luck in the future. No doubt, we will still catch glimpses of each other around Malvern.

Good luck Nick!!!

Just testing the dinners...

2011-02-24T14:15:00.000Z

Jacky accompanied Ellen to the Great Malvern Hotel for their 'Steak Sizzler' meal, which pleased immensely. Ellen enjoyed a glass of baileys which came with free mini eggs - compliments of the management. This was the treat that she decided upon as reward for her star chart. The mood was a pleasant one and the atmosphere relaxed.

Mark and the Cheese Cake

2011-02-16T10:14:00.004Z

What better way to spend a rainy day than inside making a cake... and then eating it. Apron on and at the ready, Mark put together an impressive white chocolate cheese cake, of which he treated his parents to a piece, and then shared out what was left with all the rest of us. His next master piece is keenly awaited by everyone.

A Fond Farewell and Best Wishes

2011-02-08T22:15:00.007Z

Paul Raybould will be fondly remembered by all at The Oaks following his recent move to Walsall. We hope he enjoys his time there, closer to his brother and back in the area he grew up in. We will certainly miss that unforgettable cheeky grin and fun loving character. We all wish Paul all the best for the future!

Any excuse for a party!

2011-01-31T22:18:00.001Z

Upon the return of all of Service Users after Christmas, it was felt that one last celebration was only necessary. So, on Friday the 28th of January, a feast was prepared in a joint Christmas - New Year celebration. Parents, brothers, sisters and friends all came, including our friends from The Willows and John's life long friend Anne Parker.

Many over-indulged in the pork pies, cheesy-pineapple sticks and cake, but what else is to be expected when Christmas and New Year both come at once? We chatted for hours, catching up with each other and having a laugh.

I think it would be fair to say, on behalf of everyone who attended, that a great time was had by all.

We look forward to the next party, same time next year!

Mark - Out and About

2011-01-04T21:34:00.010Z

Mark has been making great progress in his weekly travel training, when he packs his bag for a trip to Worcester and back on the train, and enjoys a cup of tea either end.

He sometimes indulges in a traditional English breakfast, but unfortunately this had disappeared before we could get a photo.

Merry Christmas to all!!!

2010-12-21T12:30:00.005Z

So in case you didn't know already, Christmas time is here again! Check back soon to see what everyone got up to over the festive period.
From all Service Users and Staff at The Oaks, have a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Party with MNAGS

2010-12-06T15:44:00.004Z

John, Jane, Nicholas and Martha went together to a party at the Vaults. Nicholas saw many people he recognised and so spent the evening chatting to old friends. Jane enjoyed dancing to some classic dance track such as the Macarena and some Black Eyed Peas, and even John got on the dance floor when the land lord rigorously searched to find one of John's favourite songs 'Do Wah Diddy' amongst other sixties songs.

Christmas is coming...

2010-12-01T12:50:00.000Z

As the weather has reminded us recently that it's winter and Christmas is coming we decided that it's time to put the Christmas tree up and get in the holiday's spirit.

The house is full of decorations, the tree ready for the presents and our brand new cooker waiting for turkey to roast in.

John's Liverpool trip

2010-11-16T13:34:00.009Z

John was born in Liverpool and likes to go back to his home city every so often. Last week, John spent a few days in Liverpool, with his support worker, Beth. John says that he enjoyed the food and the hotel that they stayed in.

Ben's fishing

2010-11-08T12:26:00.001Z

Ben is an avid fisherman. Every Friday he heads to a local fishing spot, hoping to catch a big fish. Ben believes that women bring him luck when it comes to fishing, and there might be some truth to that; just look at the fish he caught last Friday when Jackie supported him.

Halloween's party at Volts

2010-11-03T10:57:00.003Z

Halloween's celebrations continued for us throughout the whole week.

Following the party we had at The Oaks, Jane, John and Nick were still in a mood for partying and decided to go to a fancy dress party at the Vaults.

Look at some of the costumes; don't they look great!

Halloween

2010-10-29T09:42:00.010+01:00

With Halloween fast approaching, some of us got together last night and prepared some Jack-o’ lanterns for Saturday’s party. It wasn't easy – we had to draw the faces first, then patiently carve the pattern – but the end result more than justified the effort; the Jack-o’ lanterns looking great.

John Morris - ASDAN qualifications

2010-10-18T15:39:00.003+01:00

John has been working really hard on improving his everyday living skills. As a part of his ASDAN, John has chosen the Independent Living Skills module to work on first. Over the past few months John has been practising doing laundry and keeping his room tidy. John has already made great progress, but is committed to learning even more.

Keep fit!!!

2010-10-11T14:13:00.012+01:00

Jane and Ellen know how to live healthy and they are both frequent visitors to one of Malvern's gyms. Though they both have a busy schedule, they always try to find some time to pop in to their gym for a quick workout.

See photos attached below to see a proof of their hard work.

The Cotswolds

2010-10-04T15:06:00.011+01:00

Last Thursday Barry Raybould, Paul's brother invited everyone to visit The Cotwolds.

They all had lots of treats: fish and chips, ice cream, and a visit to the Model Makers Exhibition which had a model village in it. Some of us decided to drop a penny into a wishing well.

From all at The Oaks BIG THANK

YOU to BARRY for a brilliant trip !!!

Ellen and Nick on holiday

2010-09-20T13:18:00.005+01:00

Last week Ellen and Nicholas went on holiday to Minehead, Buttlins. They were supported by Martha and Emily.

Fantastic time was had by all!

They went to see Robbie Williams Tribute and Breakdance show. Everyone found something for themselves, Ellen enjoyed swimming, Nicholas loved playing golf.

Nicholas and Martha tried their luck by sifting for gold.

Ellen preferred to spend money instead of looking for it on lots of shopping.

2010-09-07T00:45:00.006+01:00

Here is Nicholas and Jane enjoying a Monday night out. Nicholas has just came back off holiday with his family and will soon be off again next week with Ellen. So between holidays he just about found time to visit the local pub! Nicholas and Jane really enjoy visiting the local pubs.

Happy Birthday John !!!

2010-09-07T00:23:00.006+01:00

Today is Johns 53rd birthday and we all wish him the best! John spent the day with his family at the Swan in Malvern. He had a great day and enjoyed his fish and chip lunch at the Swan.On his return he enjoyed some cake with all of us at the Oaks!

Meet our new staff

2010-08-30T10:09:00.004+01:00

Three new Support Workers have joined Support Team at The Oaks.

After job interview where they had to answer many questions from both Service Users and Staff and 2 weeks of intensive induction Martina, Bethany and Claire started on Monday.

From all at the Oaks a BIG WELCOME and GOOD LUCK!

ASDAN - Mark's Independent Living

2010-08-23T17:41:00.003+01:00

As a part of ASDAN Independent Living Skills, Mark has joined Malvern Library. He is now a frequent visitor to the Library and enjoyes looking at the wide selection of music available.

Each week he likes to try something new when it comes to music.

After visiting the Library, Mark likes to pop to the Winter Gardens for a cup of tea.

Happy Birthday Mark!!!

2010-08-16T16:52:00.005+01:00

Saturday marked Mark's 44th Birthday!

His birthday celebration began on Friday with a pub lunch and didn't finish until Sunday when he finally finished opening all of his presents!

Happy Birthday Mark from all Service Users and Staff at The Oaks!

Secret Garden...

2010-08-09T17:47:00.000+01:00

It's not really a secret garden, in fact our garden is our pride and joy!

If you remember we wrote on the blog in May about replanting and planting some vegetables and flowers. Now you can see effects of our hard work!

Karaoke nights

2010-07-26T13:06:00.000+01:00

John is an avid 60's music fan. He's travelled all the way to Liverpool and London to see some of his favourite shows. When he doesn't plan his next trips John likes to go to one of the local pubs with his Key Worker Martha and sing Karaoke.

ASDAN - Jane's cooking skills training

2010-07-21T09:16:00.000+01:00

Jane has chosen three great modules to work on within ASDAN qualifications. Jane decided to try Everyday Living, Photography and Relationships.

As a part of Everyday Living Jane was baking some cakes the other day. She shared them all out. I was lucky enough to try one as well and I can tell you they were DELICIOUS.

Jane and Mark on holiday

2010-07-13T13:29:00.000+01:00

Last week Jane and Mark alongside with Maddy and Gareth went on holiday to OceanLodge in Brine. They had a fantastic time, beautiful weather, drinks at a pool area, long walks on the beach and great company.

I recon photos speak louder than words so see for yourself.

Jane and Mark on the train on the way to Brine.

Jane and Maddy enjoying sun and Maddy less enjoying cooking.

Mark at the beach and Jane who prefers a bit warmer settings, in the pool.

There's nothing better than a quiet drink at a restaurant.

What else could grils want: sea side, nice weather and SHOPS, LOADS OF SHOPS.

ASDAN - Ellen's computer skills training

2010-06-28T12:31:00.000+01:00

As a part of Ellen's ASDAN qualification she is undertaking a computer skills course. Ellen is very good in typing and she often helps in various admin duties in the office.

Ellen writes her own healthy eating and diet diary on her own computer. She also writes sometimes her own reports on the Care Docs. Ellen is progressing very well and she is interested in learning about different computer programs. As a proof of her hard work and skills have a look at the photos below.

Transition Flat - before and after...

2010-06-16T13:37:00.016+01:00

Now when the Transition Flat is completed you can see how much it has changed. It's a huge difference.

Before the works have started:

Halfway through:

Completed flat:

Opening Day!

2010-06-07T12:31:00.000+01:00

Last Friday we held a party to celebrate completion of the Transition Flat.

It was a great success! Weather was amazing, food delicious and the company great!

Big thank you to all who have came and all Staff and Service Users who have helped with the preparations.

Summer is coming...

2010-05-27T09:13:00.014+01:00

We had an amazing weather last weekend. It was sunny and very, very warm!

Everyone decided to spent some time in the garden and enjoy the summer.

While most of us where hiding in a shade and drinking cold drinks some busy bees despite the heat did some gardening.

Thank you to Maddy, Jane, Paul and Gaynor for their hard work and turning our garden into a such a lovely place.

Shopping day

2010-05-26T12:02:00.000+01:00

As a part of Independent Living Skills training Service Users are encouraged in actively participating in choosing their own meals, shopping and cooking.

Mark and Paul went out last week to do some shopping. They did really good job in looking for the bargains.

Have a look at some photos of Mark and Paul browsing around the shop.

Congratulations!

2010-05-20T10:12:00.003+01:00

We are proud to announce that one of our members of staff Michelle Grundy has successfully completed her NVQ level 2 in Health and Social Care. Well done Michelle!!!

Day on a farm...

2010-05-13T13:00:00.014+01:00

Ellen had a brilliant week. Her Star Chart was full of stars!

As a reward for the Star Chart Ellen has chosen to go and feed animals on a farm.

On Wednesday she invited Jane, Mark and two members of staff to go with her.

They all had a great day out.

Ellen took lots of brilliant photos of all the animals.

She clearly has got a talent.

Ellen's shopping day - working towards ASDAN qualifications

2010-05-10T11:46:00.000+01:00

Service Users at The Oaks have recently started working towards ASDAN qualifications.

As a part of Ellen's ASDAN training she learns how to shop for and cook her own lunch.

Every Wednesday Ellen chooses a meal she wants to cook, she writes a list of all the necessary ingredients and then goes shopping.

We all think Ellen is a brilliant cook!

If you are lucky you can get invited by Ellen to join her and try her cooking. I can assure you it's delicious!

The Oaks is a registered ASDAN (Award Scheme Development & Accreditation Network) Centre. ASDAN enables service users to gain recognised qualifications within a wide range of programmes suited to individual abilities and interests.

Carbooting

2010-04-27T09:52:00.001+01:00

It's getting warmer and there's more and more car boots everywhere. On Sunday we like to pop in to one of them and have a little brows. We always find something interesting and it's nice to have a walk before delicious Sunday roast!

Last Sunday Ellen bought some relaxation music, Nick found some great deals on DVDs and Mark enjoyed tasty sausage roll.

We will see you next week fellow bargain hunters! (Weather permitting of course)

Meet our new staff

2010-04-19T14:58:00.005+01:00

Hi everybody! My name is John and I've just started working at The Oaks. My first couple of weeks were a bombardment of information I needed to know, but Assistant Manager, Maggie, presented it with an easy going style that helped a lot of it sink in. The Oaks provide an unbelievable array of courses from first aid to a course on medication to LDQ and NVQ.

The staff here are great, and that's not me being polite, I've found everyone approachable and supportive. They are all professional but fun too. I've already been invited onto the staff nights out, so I feel very accepted which is hard sometimes moving into a new job.

It's not only the staff who've been accepting but the Service Users too. I've been told of the best places to have a meal or a cup of coffee. Jane likes my hats and Mark has me trained into a professional tea maker.

I love it at The Oaks. I can't stop smiling.

Sounds of Music - Sing-a-Long-a

2010-04-07T14:47:00.004+01:00

Last week Jane and John went to Malvern Theatres to see Sing-a-Long-a Sounds of Music. It's the famous musical complete with subtitles so that you can sing along. They both said they had a fantastic time and it was great idea to have the subtitles on however John said he knew most of the songs' lyrics already!

Easter Greetings!!!

2010-03-31T12:02:00.009+01:00

Easter is coming soon and we are all very excited, looking forward seeing our families, and let's be honest, eating all those chocolate eggs!

From all of us at The Oaks Happy Easter everyone!

Transition Flat - updates

2010-03-25T09:37:00.008Z

Hello everyone! We haven't been writing about the flat for some time but it's only because we've been busy ordering furniture, curtains, lights, stools, etc.

Today we will have new carpets fitted and we've just got a phone call that furniture for Nick's and the vacant bedroom are coming today as well! As always there's some photos for you to have a look.

End of week four...

2010-03-11T09:22:00.010Z

We are pleased to say that the flat is coming along really nicely! There is just last few bits to finish off, we have ordered some furniture and the rooms are waiting to be decorated. We all are very excited and we have already started planning an Open Day so you all can come and see the flat for yourself!

Transition Flat - end of week 3

2010-03-01T09:38:00.002Z

Hello everyone! Third week of the work on the flat has just gone and we all are getting more and more excited about our project. We've started looking for some furniture and bits and bobs to decorate the flat when it's ready. Donna, Maggie and Nick wrote a long list of kitchen items which we need to get. You would not believe how long the list is! For now here's some photos...

Foley Arms Hotel

2010-02-24T09:16:00.004Z

If you want to know where are the best places to spend afternoon in Great Malvern you should ask John. Nearly every day John goes out for a cup of tea and maybe a bit of lunch to various pubs and cafes in the town centre. Recently one of John's favourite places has been closed down so John wrote a letter expressing his feelings.

Letter from John Morris:

"I am very sorry that The Foley Arms Hotel has closed. I shall always remember having a cup of tea on the balcony in the summer but I mostly had cream teas. I hope it will be a hotel again but I think it will be a Weather Spoons".

Transition flat - week two

2010-02-17T10:32:00.009Z

Well we're two weeks in now with the work on the transition flat and already there have been some big changes. The walls have colour now, which makes a huge difference, and the kitchen units and breakfast bar are in. We've picked out the carpets and light fittings and we are currently debating what colour tiles to have in the kitchen. And believe us, it's not such an easy decision. For now here are some photos. Stay tuned for more updates!

Transition Flat - first week

2010-02-08T10:55:00.017Z

The first week of work has been completed and, as promised, here are a few updates. Here's how it looks at the moment (a bit chaotic!).

The company that made this mess and that's working hard to turn our old annex into a great flat is called Williams Brothers.

Williams Brothers is a building contractors run by two brothers, Stewart and Mark. We can highly recommend them so if you have any building work that needs doing you can contact them by phone on 01432 263838 or email williamsbrothers@o2.co.uk.

Transition Flat is going ahead

2010-02-04T14:44:00.003Z

Here's a quick word from Donna, our Manager, about the transition flat:

Following the changes within the social care field, The Oaks is embarking on a novel way to ensure service users with learning disabilities are enabled to enhance their life skills and achieve a more independent way of life.

The ‘Transition Flat’ is a part of The Oaks Care Home which will be self contained for two service users to undertake a more extensive training programme. This will enable staff to teach life skills and will better enable adults with learning disabilities within the county to be equipped with the essential skills to ensure prospective independent living placements succeed.

Such training programmes will be delivered by ASDAN trained staff to ensure that Service Users can achieve formal qualifications in life skills. We have identified that sometimes adults with learning disabilities find the jump from residential care to independent living too daunting and with our company ethos based around promoting independence and individualised care we would like to help adults build the confidence they need to succeed in independent living.

Right folks, building work started on 1.02.10 and we will keep you all updated on its progress!

Take a last look at how the flat looks now, soon you won't believe the difference.

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas...

2010-02-03T14:50:00.001Z

Well not so much Christmas and it definitely wasn't a dream. January this year was snowy and icy, much to many people's annoyance. Now that it's finally gone let us forget about traffic jams, problems with being on time, bins not being emptied and so on, and instead look again at how beautiful and magical Malvern looked in the snow.

P.S. Not everyone was annoyed by the weather, we at The Oaks had a great time... See for yourself!!!

John's holiday in Scotland

2010-02-02T14:04:00.001Z

Every year John goes to visit his family in Scotland. He always comes back in a jolly mood, full of funny stories and lovely memories.

I asked John to say a few words about his holiday:

"What I liked the most was the lovely food. My sister is a very good cook. We didn't go out a lot because of the snow, you know how it is there, it's on the top of Great Britain! I didn't mind the plane journey, it's alright except when the plane takes off and your ears feel funny. I look forward to visiting Scotland again!"(written by John).

New Year's Party!!!

2010-01-21T10:09:00.011Z

Why celebrate the beginning of a new year once when you can do it twice? The service users living here at The Oaks had exactly that in mind when, with help from the Oaks staff, they organised a celebratory party in honour of Carnivale.
With groovy music and terrific food and drink there was something for everyone and we all had a good time.
Thanks to everyone for coming and see you next year!

Christmas morning at The Oaks

2009-12-28T16:34:00.007Z

Though it may have been cold and icy outside it was nice and warm at The Oaks on Christmas morning. Full of Christmas cheer, Mark and Paul opened their presents and then enjoyed a lovely walk followed by a traditional Christmas dinner.

From all Service Users and staff at The Oaks Merry Christmas everyone!!!

Paul's "turkey and tinsel" holiday

2009-12-14T15:08:00.027Z

Last week Paul went with his lucky support worker Charmaine to the lovely seaside city of Bournemouth, courtesy of Paul's brother Barry who not only organised the festivities but also got them there in his coach. They went with a coach party from the Portobello Club.

Every evening there was something special going on, with a different theme each night. On Monday there was a Christmas Eve party followed by a Christmas Day celebration on Tuesday. On Wednesday the theme was Boxing Day and then on Thursday the revellers welcomed in the new year with a New Year's Eve themed grand finale. Paul said that he greatly enjoyed the partying! What a wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit!

Karen's leaving party

2009-12-07T10:03:00.012Z

Last Tuesday we bid a fond farewell to Karen Wilkinson who was our Head of Service at Exalon Care Homes. She was a frequent visitor and played an important role in the day to day running of The Oaks. Karen is now moving into a new job and we all wish her all the best for the future. Karen we will miss you!

After the party we received a message from Karen: "I would like to express my sincere thanks to you, the whole staff team and service users for my wonderful leaving party. I was overwhelmed with the lovely presents you all brought for me and the beautiful spread that was laid on for me. I know you and your staff team's hard work and commitment will continue to benefit the service users lives and all of your person centred working has at The Oaks has been demonstrated effortlessly. I will miss you all very much. Love Karen xx"

Designate Manager

2009-11-20T10:31:00.002Z

Hello Everyone,

Most of you are aware that Jolene is no longer the manager at The Oaks. From everyone at The Oaks we would like to wish Jolene well and good luck for all of her future projects.

The new Designate Manager is myself, Donna Taundry.

I have worked closely with all of the service users while being here at The Oaks and have developed great relationships with their families and friends.

I would like to thank all of the service users, staff , families and outside agencies for your wonderful feedback and support.

I look forward to working with you in the future!

Thanks Again- Donna

Sixties Night Out

2009-11-10T11:57:00.004Z

John and Paul have enjoyed a 'Sixties Night Out' with a show at Malvern Theatre.

The show included musical acts from the sixties and the gents were happy to sing along.

They had posh nosh before hand and a few beers out.

I am told they had a late one-

but they both thoroughly enjoyed themselves!!!

Training and Qualifications

2009-11-10T11:47:00.003Z

Congratulations to

Gaynor Ball

for completing

LDQ Level 3

**********

Staff have also attended various training days this pass month, these include;

Boots Medication Dosage System

Safe Handling of Medication

Dementia Care Level 2

Engagement and Interaction

Star Rating

2009-10-06T13:36:00.003+01:00

We are pleased to announce we have had our recent inspection

report and The Oaks is now officially rated

2 STARS

A big thank you to everyone for all of their positive feedback

and continued support!

Thank You and Congratulations Everyone!

The Morgan Day Out!

2009-10-06T13:11:00.002+01:00

The gents enjoyed lunch at 'The Fox' before carrying on with their drive around the county.

A Day Out In A Morgan Car!

2009-10-06T12:49:00.003+01:00

Paul and Gareth went to the Morgan Factory to collect the car and then enjoyed a drive around the county. Paul loved having the top down and the wind blowing in his face and the attention he received from the ladies.......

Paul's Big Day Out!

2009-10-06T12:43:00.003+01:00

Paul, with assistance from Gareth, hired the Morgan (along with a chauffeur!!!!!! I might add) to take him for a drive around the county including stopping for lunch at a lovely restaurant!

Paul Raybould

2009-10-02T11:47:00.004+01:00

Those of you that know Mr Paul Raybould will already be aware of his love of cars!

Our home is situated just around the corner from the Morgan Motors Factory

and Paul has been to visit the factory, however, last week Mr Raybould decided to go one better than a visit to the factory! He donned his best suit and hired a Morgan for the day!!!!!

I kid you not! Take a look at the photos......

Jolene's wedding Cake

2009-10-02T11:43:00.002+01:00

Yes, your eyes do not deceive you!

Jolene's wedding cake is an AA Van!

Seems the happy couple's story is straight from a fairy tale

as they first met when Jolene broke down and

Steve (who works for the AA) came to rescue her!

A modern day Cinderella story!

Jolene's Wedding

2009-10-02T11:40:00.006+01:00

As you know, Jolene married Steve on 5th September and I have finally managed to steal some photos of the big day!

Aaaaahhhhh doesn't she look lovely!

John Morris in London.

2009-09-28T12:12:00.003+01:00

John Morris at Buckingham Palace in London.

John Morris in London

2009-09-28T12:04:00.002+01:00

More photos of John in London..............