Supporting residents with their hobbies at Sandholme Fold care home

Margaret Ackroyd enjoyed visiting her local swimming pool when she lived at home. With the support of carers at Sandholme Fold care home in Halifax, she’s been able to continue with the hobby that brings her immense joy.

Khardine, a carer at Sandholme Fold, discovered that Margaret missed swimming but didn’t feel quite confident going again by herself. Wanting to help, Khardine decided to accompany Margaret to the swimming pool at Brighouse Fitness Centre.

Margaret enjoyed being back at the pool so much that they’ve decided to make it a regular outing, and now once a month Khardine supports Margaret to go swimming. Together, they make each session special by visiting the centre’s cafe afterwards and finishing off the day with a Happy Meal from McDonald’s – a personal favourite of Margaret’s. 

Beyond exercise, Margaret loves the social aspect of swimming. She enjoys spending her time socialising by the pool and chatting to everyone she meets. 

On being able to go swimming again, Margaret said: 

I am very happy to be going swimming it brings me joy. The staff are very friendly and kind and welcoming to us, I’m very appreciative that I can still go swimming once a month and we receive top treatment on every visit.

We know that hobbies and interests shape the person we are, and at Anchor our care teams support residents like Margaret to continue doing the things they enjoy. You can read more about our approach to wellness and activity here.