Wheelchair-bound care home residents go ice skating for first time in decades

Twenty-six care home residents, including two on end of life care, went ice skating for the first time in decades, with an 88-year-old saying she “loved the feeling of freedom”.

The team at CHD Living, which provides care services across Surrey, decided to organise a day out skating after residents reminisced about skating in their youth over Christmas.

The group, which also included two residents on end of life care, an amputee and a 35-year-old recovering from a serious brain injury, wrapped up warm to enjoy turns on the rink alongside their care workers.

Rosie Livinia Kirkin, aged 88, said: “I used to ice skate in Richmond when I was in my 20s, so to come here brings back lovely memories and takes me back to my young days. I love the feeling of freedom that skating gives you and I’d like to thank CHD Living for organising such a special day out for us.”

Sue Spicer, wife of resident Lewis, aged 91, who has been receiving care at Brownscombe House since having his leg amputated, added: “It was fantastic to see Lewis on the ice today. He looked absolutely free, which he hasn’t in a while since becoming an amputee.

“Experiences like this mean so much to the residents because they stimulate them and, although they often can’t talk, the memories stay with them and draw them into life. Lewis will always remember today and will definitely want to do it again.”

CHD Living chose Guildford Spectrum especially for this group activity as they allow people with disabilities to access the ice rink via their wheelchairs, ensuring that every resident was able to take part, and Guildford Spectrum provided the tickets on a complimentary basis.

Shaleeza Hasham, head of hospitality & communications for CHD Living, said: “Socialisation, keeping residents active and stimulated, as well as giving them the opportunity to meet new people whilst not being confined to the four walls of their homes is imperative in ensuring our residents continue to live their lives to the fullest.

“What’s been really great about today is that it wasn’t just our CHD Living residents skating – they were amongst the local community of Guildford. There were children, professionals, and people here just for fun, all ice skating and having a wonderful time together. The day brought so much joy and happiness to our residents and I think they’re going to remember it for a very, very long time.”

Established in 1984 by founders Liakat and Nazira Hasham, CHD Living is an family-owned group, comprising 12 residences throughout Surrey, as well as two specialist rehabilitation centres and a domiciliary care business, Longdene Homecare, providing care for over 800 people across Surrey and South London.

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