Godden Lodge Care Home, run by HC-One and located in Benfleet, Essex, welcomed residents, family, friends, and guests from the local community to join in the national Care Home Open Week celebrations from Monday 16th June to Sunday 22nd June 2025.
The highlight of the week took place during Care Home Open Weekend, between Friday 20th June and Sunday 22nd June, when Godden Lodge opened its doors to host a joyful summer garden party as part of HC-One’s themed festivities: ‘The Big Summer Weekender’. This event emulated the nostalgic charm of classic British summer holidays and brought together residents, colleagues, volunteers, and visitors for a memorable weekend of connection and celebration.
Care Home Open Week, hosted nationally by Championing Social Care, aims to strengthen bonds between care homes and their local communities by showcasing the services, facilities, and enriching lifestyle offered to residents. HC-One’s Godden Lodge took the opportunity to highlight the strong community spirit at the home and reinforce its role as a supportive neighbour and hub for local engagement.
The 123-bed home provides high-quality residential, nursing, residential dementia and nursing dementia care, and includes thoughtfully designed features such as a hair salon, nail bar, spacious lounges, comfortable bedrooms, and well-maintained gardens.
The home was colourfully decorated with vibrant summer-themed adornments, creating a festive and welcoming setting. Guests were treated to a variety of activities including a summer garden festival, displays of resident artwork and crafts, and a very special visit from two adorable donkey sisters, who brought immense joy to the residents and guests alike.
A standout moment was the reception display of beautiful clothes handcrafted by resident Janet, showcasing her incredible talent and adding a personal touch to the event.
Visitors also learned about the many fulfilling career and volunteer opportunities available within the home. The day offered a chance for future care professionals to hear firsthand about the rewards of working in a caring and compassionate environment.
Lewis Chester, HC-One’s Godden Lodge Care Home Manager, said:
“This event was such a heart-warming celebration of community and togetherness. It was wonderful to welcome so many friendly faces into our home, to enjoy fantastic entertainment, delicious refreshments, and heartfelt conversations. The residents loved the atmosphere, and our team was so proud to showcase the facilities and the work we do every day.”