Residents at HC-One Wales’s Parklands Care Home in Bedwas, Caerphilly, are raising a glass to a new addition that is already bringing smiles, conversation and a renewed sense of normality: The Parklands Arms.
The care home has transformed part of its dining room into a welcoming pub-style social space, designed to recreate the familiar sights, sounds and atmosphere of a local bar. While it may be a small change physically, the impact on residents’ wellbeing has been anything but small.
The Parklands Arms has quickly become a gathering spot where residents can enjoy meaningful moments with loved ones and friends – from husbands and wives sharing a drink and a chat, to sons spending quality time with their dads over a pint or a coffee while talking rugby or football. Friends can leaf through magazines together, enjoy a game of dominoes with a glass of wine, take part in pub quizzes or invite visitors in for a relaxed social catch-up.
The idea has been a long-held ambition for the home, inspired by a desire to bring elements of everyday life from the outside world into the care setting. By recreating familiar social experiences, the space helps residents feel connected to their communities and reassures them that they can continue to enjoy an active social life.
Marie Evans, Senior Wellbeing Coordinator at Parklands Care Home said:
“This is something I’ve thought about for a long time. We wanted to create a space that brings a sense of normality from the outside world into the home – somewhere residents can socialise in the same way they always have. Seeing a husband and wife sit together with a drink, or a son chatting to his dad about rugby, is incredibly special. The smiles and conversations we’re already seeing show just how much it means.”
Since opening, the home has been filled with excitement, with residents talking enthusiastically about the new “bar downstairs” and eagerly making plans to meet there with friends and family.
The team at Parklands Care Home say the project reflects HC-One Wales’s commitment to person-centred care, focusing on what truly matters to residents and supporting their emotional and social wellbeing alongside their physical care.
With laughter already echoing through the home and glasses clinking in celebration,
The Parklands Arms is fast becoming the heart of Parklands – a place where memories are shared, friendships are strengthened and everyone is welcome.
For more information on Parklands, please visit:
Parklands - Care home in Bedwas, Caerphilly | HC One