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A Sunderland care home has been hailed as “a fantastic example” by a leading industry body at its most recent inspection.

Bede House, in Ryhope, Sunderland, was praised by national UK charity NAPA for its “creative, person-centred activities” and “warm, inclusive atmosphere”.

NAPA visited the 66-bed care home on Monday, July 20, and is tasked with supporting care providers across the country promote meaningful engagement, wellbeing and quality of life for people receiving care and support.

Bede House, which was rated outstanding by the Care Quality Commission, offers a programme full of arts, crafts, therapies and activities to all of its residents, tailored to their varying interests and abilities.

Pictured at Bede House from left is Hilary Woodhead, CEO of NAPA, Gillian McCabe, director of quality and governance at Prestwick Care, and Natalie Ravenscroft, NAPA services manager, alongside care home staff.

placeholder image — Pictured at Bede House from left is Hilary Woodhead, CEO of NAPA, Gillian McCabe, director of quality and governance at Prestwick Care, and Natalie Ravenscroft, NAPA services manager, alongside care home staff.

Care home manager, Karen Suleiman, said: “This includes bingo and other sensory and motor skills activities such as chair exercises, badminton and music therapy.

“We look at reminiscing games, triggering memories from past times to create meaningful conversations and keep the residents’ minds active too.”

Bede House organises regular visits for its residents to places of interest in and around Sunderland as well as supporting the local community.

Residents are taken to high tea once a month at a nearby community centre, creating social inclusion and raising awareness of dementia.

Bede House also ensures its indoor spaces and gardens are creatively arranged, with a recreated beach scene currently taking pride of place on the outdoor terrace.

CEO of NAPA, Hilary Woodhead, said: “Bede House is a fantastic example of how creative, person-centred activities can enrich daily life and bring people together.

“It was wonderful to see such an imaginative approach to activity provision, with every detail thoughtfully designed to create a meaningful experience for residents.

“From the beach-inspired setting, water feature, sand and seashells to the beautiful North East mural in the garden, the environment encouraged reminiscence, conversation and sensory engagement.

“It was lovely to see residents, families and staff enjoying the theme together in such a warm and inclusive atmosphere.”

Bede House is part of Prestwick Care, which operates 19 care homes across the North East and is part of Malhotra Group Plc.

For more information about the care home, see https://fave.co/4fdZOdr.