Dementia specialist nursing home in Nottinghamshire plans to open multipurpose intergenerational space in partnership with nursery

A specialist dementia nursing home in Nottinghamshire has announced plans to open a new multipurpose, intergenerational space in collaboration with a local nursery. 

Wren Hall, a dementia specialist nursing home in Selston, Nottinghamshire, plans to open a new collaborative building with Little Wrens nursery, which is attached to the home. The space, which is set to open this summer, will have a coffee shop feel and be able to host the likes of films, discos, and meal times.

Anita Astle MBE, owner and manager of Wren Hall, said: "We're very excited to be opening this new space and our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment that brings together people of all ages and abilities. We believe the new intergenerational space will be a hub of activity and a valuable resource for the local community, enriching the lives of everyone involved."

Designed to bring together family members and young children, the space will provide a unique opportunity for intergenerational activities to take place and help create a sense of community. The aim is for the nursing home and the nursery to share lunchtimes as well as integrate with the wider Selston community whilst maintaining safeguarding requirements.

Intergenerational mixing is known to have many benefits. It brings joy, purpose, and meaningful connections to family members, while also providing learning opportunities for the younger generation. It can also help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation in the elderly.

Courtney Price, Nursery Manager at Little Wrens, said: “No one is too old or too young to benefit from the magic of intergenerational mixing and I think we really demonstrate that at Little Wrens, with just how wonderful the everyday interaction with Wren Hall is. This new space will only accelerate the benefits we have seen so far and be a great opportunity for our children to continue to learn from and connect with older adults.”

The new space will be equipped with a range of facilities, including  a coffee bar style kitchenette, table and chairs for dining and communal activities, and reclining chairs for relaxation and watching movies on the cinema screen. 

Rated ‘Outstanding’ by CQC, Wren Hall strives to provide a homely and friendly environment to help those living with dementia to achieve optimum independence. Part of this includes referring to those who reside in the home as ‘family members’ rather than residents.

For more information on Wren Hall, please visit https://wrenhall.com/ or for further information about Little Wrens, visit https://www.facebook.com/littlewrensdaynursery/.