Birmingham care home hosts special event to kick off Commonwealth Games

Madeleine House care home in Birmingham welcomed residents and colleagues from other care homes including Kerria Court, Tandy Court, and Maple Dene for some healthy competition on Thursday 28 July.

The event was particularly special for our Birmingham based care homes as it is where the Commonwealth Games are being held. Competitions included javelin throwing, an egg and spoon race, relay race and hurdles. A barbeque lunch was also served, and winners were honoured during a medals and prize giving ceremony at the end of the day.   

Nicola Pendrey, Manager of Tandy Court care home, said:

Activities like these really boost residents’ physical and mental wellbeing. It was great to see residents cheering on the care teams and vice versa, everyone really got into the spirit!

The event was part of the Anchor Games, an initiative aimed at bringing people together through sport, and promoting the physical and mental benefits of being active. The project has been rolled out to all our care homes and is also a way to show support for the athletes competing in this year’s Commonwealth Games.  

Throughout July, activities have been tied to a sporting theme each week - including ball games, mixed martial arts, track and field, and water sports – ensuring there is something to suit each residents’ interests and abilities. Care homes have been provided with specialist equipment to ensure all residents are able to participate. The month-long celebration of sport has also included food tasting events (featuring dishes from the Commonwealth countries) and reminisce sessions where residents can unite in shared memories of sport.  

Maurice McElligott, a resident at Madeleine House care home, has been enjoying getting outside and being active as part of the initiative.  

He said:

The Anchor Games have been a big hit and good fun. I especially enjoyed our sports day with the other homes and competing in the races.

The 2022 Commonwealth Games is the first time the West Midlands has played host to the event. As preparations for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games have taken shape, residents and colleagues have been discussing Birmingham’s history and reflecting on what they love most about the city.  

Jean Caswell, a resident at Tandy Court care home has lived in Birmingham her whole life.  

She said:

Birmingham is one of the finest cities. It has industry, tourism and there is so much to do. We’re excited to be the host of the Commonwealth Games and show everyone what we have to offer! 

To learn more about our Anchor Games initiative, please click here. Alternatively, follow along on our Facebook and Twitter pages or search for the hashtag #AnchorGames.