As part of this year’s care home open day last Friday, residents and guests enjoyed a day of fun and activities before the new ‘wishing tree’ was unveiled. The idea is for residents to attach wishes they’ve always wanted to fulfil and the care home to help them achieve them. When a wish has been granted, a flower will be added to show it has come true.

Patricia Payne, managing director, said, “The highlight of the afternoon was the wishing tree. Some of the wishes, like going to the zoo to see the pandas, are things that we can do something about. Others, such as winning the lottery, we can’t do so much!

“You’ve got to put the effort in but you get far more out of it. It’s fantastic to see so many people happy. It’s good for the relatives too to see their family having an interesting, exciting life. It makes such a difference. It also gives a bit of insight into improvements or suggestions to our social calendar!” The day also saw plenty of entertainment and Patricia added, “It was absolutely fantastic. There was lots of music and dancing and even the people in the wheelchairs like to move to the rhythm of the music.

“We had singer Ray Blundell there and one of our residents, Stan Brown, got up and sang Great Balls of Fire!

“There was a fantastic buffet and one of our staff put up sculptures and artwork on all four sides of the courtyard. People were asking if it was for sale and when the new unit and cafe opens I’m going to put on a display of his work!

“We’d also like to say a big thank you to Cara Hilton who came along and supported us.” Ms Hilton, MSP for Dunfermline, said, “I was delighted to officially open Bandrum’s Open Day and to unveil the wishing tree.

“I know that the staff are already working with the residents to make their dreams come true.

“National Care Home Open Day is an opportunity for the public spotlight to shine brightly on the dedicated people who do fantastic work in care homes in West Fife and right across the UK.

“I’m pleased this year it was dedicated to valuing everyone who works in the care home sector, recognising the brilliant work they do to look after residents and support their families and their important community role.”