Berkeley Court care home hosts slow dating event for Valentines Day

Love is in the air at Berkeley Court care home in Leeds ahead of Valentine’s Day, as residents came together for a ‘slow dating’ event celebrating friendship and companionship - an idea dreamed up by one of Berkeley Court’s own residents.

Set in the care home’s café, which was lovingly decorated with Valentine’s Day touches, the event featured conversation starter cards placed on each table. True to its name, the slow dating format gave people the opportunity to mingle at their own pace and sit wherever they felt most comfortable as they got to reconnect with familiar faces. 

The afternoon included a delicious lunch and sweetheart treats, with entertainment provided by performer Ukulele Henry. 

The inspiration for the event came from a conversation between a colleague and resident, who opened up about missing his late wife and said he'd welcome the chance to meet someone for companionship - though he didn't think it would be possible in a care home. The team at Berkeley Court took that as their cue to create an event that would give everyone the opportunity to reconnect in a relaxed, warm environment. 

Doreen and Ian, two residents who met at Berkeley Court and have formed a close friendship over the past few of years, have become the home's poster couple for the event, often seen enjoying each other’s company.

By the end of the afternoon, the café had taken on the warm, buzzing energy of a community coming together.

Michaela Jessop, Home Manager at Berkeley Court, said:

The slow dating event was such a pleasure to organise and even more wonderful to watch unfold. At Berkeley Court, we’re always listening to what matters to our residents, and this event came directly from those everyday conversations. The atmosphere in the café was just wonderful and full of laughter, warmth and people really taking the time to chat and laugh with one another.

Ian, resident Berkeley Court, said:

Spending time with people and having the chance to talk properly makes such a difference. The afternoon was very relaxed, and there was no pressure. The team here always put a lot of care into making everyone feel comfortable, and it was such an enjoyable way to spend time together and feel connected. 

For more information about Berkeley Court, please click here.