Apr 2021
Innovative Corridor Bingo at Oxlip House helps residents beat lockdown isolation
If you can’t get together for a beloved game of bingo in a care home what do you do? Do it from a doorway, of course.
Faced with social distancing and lockdown restrictions, residents at Oxlip House were thrilled when Corridor Bingo was introduced by the OSJCT care team at the BPHA Retirement Living building in Bury St Edmunds.
Laura Riley, a Domiciliary Carer, came up with the idea of Corridor Bingo which residents could safely join from outside their flat doorways. With support from managers Tara Barber and Jane Hayhoe, Laura invited other members of the care team to help to run the event.
Oxlip House’s inaugural Bingo took place on 28 April 2020. This was followed by a corridor tea party for VE Day in May. Other events followed including Christmas Bingo and a corridor Carol Service. Most recently an Easter themed Corridor Bingo took place.
Laura said: “We knew that residents were missing their families and opportunities to socialise with their neighbours, due to the lockdown and the closure of the onsite restaurant. I’m so proud of the team, who donated their time as well as Bingo prizes and refreshments, for making these events a success. Hearing laughter and seeing joy on the faces of residents was fantastic.
“The team pulled together to create some bright days and memories for our residents during what has probably been their loneliest year.”
Residents enthusiastically joined in with the games, with over 30 taking part in the Easter event, at which two expressed thanks to OSJCT managers and carers. The team also organised Easter Goody bags, cakes and bunny ears for residents.
One resident, Mrs Jean Stone, who moved into Oxlip House in November 2019 said: “The carers and staff are wonderful, they carried on stoically during these tough times. They came up with Corridor Bingo, and the photographs posted in the hallway are confirmation of how happy we were. It’s these things that make me so pleased that I moved into Oxlip House.”
Regional Director, Patsy Just, said: “This is a brilliant initiative, which clearly means so much to the tenants who have been isolating in their flats. The team at Oxlip House are wonderful and clearly supported by great leaders.”
Photo Caption: from left to right - Resident Ted Filer, Oxlip House Carer and Bingo Caller, Laura Riley and resident Jean Stone enjoying Corridor Bingo.