The new room has been designed to give residents a relaxed, familiar place to socialise, watch sport, play board games and enjoy a drink together. With its pub-style touches, including bar mats, beer mats, optics and empty bottles displayed on the shelves, it offers a welcoming space where residents can get together just as they might in their local pub.

The idea came from residents’ meetings, where people were invited to share their thoughts on how they would like different lounges around the home to look and feel. A pub room proved particularly popular, with several male residents expressing an interest in having somewhere they could enjoy games, sports and a chat with others.

Taking the time to understand what residents enjoy is an important part of life at Larkrise. While some people love organised activities, others prefer a quieter, more informal way to spend their time. Having spaces that reflect residents’ individual interests can help them feel comfortable, build friendships and take part in social activities in ways that suit them.

The pub room was initially inspired by the wishes of male residents, who wanted somewhere to watch sport, play games and socialise. However, it is open to everyone living at Larkrise and is available throughout the day as part of the residential household.
A fridge stocked with drinks will allow residents to help themselves, making the room feel even more like a familiar pub setting and giving them the freedom to enjoy the space whenever they choose.

Jade Wise, Activities Coordinator at Larkrise Care Centre, said: “It’s been lovely to bring the residents’ idea to life and create a space they can really enjoy. Although the idea came from our male residents, who wanted somewhere to watch sport, play dominoes and enjoy a drink together, the room is for everyone to use. We want all our residents to feel comfortable making the space their own, whether that’s getting together with friends, having a chat or simply enjoying a bit of quiet time. It’s all about listening to what our residents want and creating spaces that reflect their interests.”

The finishing touches were made possible thanks to a generous donation from Danny’s Bar in Banbury. Catherine Howse, Home Manager at Larkrise Care Centre who’s brother works at the pub and spoke to his manager about the project, resulting in a collection of bar mats, beer mats, empty bottles for display and optics being kindly donated. These thoughtful additions have helped bring the idea to life, creating an authentic pub atmosphere for residents to enjoy.

Resident Ron was delighted with the new space. He said: “This is a lovely room to come and sit in for a drink. I’m really looking forward to spending time in here watching TV and playing darts, it will take me back to my younger years.”

The new pub room is a lovely example of how listening to residents and acting on their ideas can make a real difference to everyday life. By creating a space that reflects their interests and preferences, Larkrise is helping residents continue to enjoy familiar pastimes, spend time with others and make the most of life at the home.