Sitting behind the Mayor’s desk isn’t something most people expect from a morning out, but for residents at Caddington Grove Care Home in Dunstable, it became a moment to remember. A recent visit to Grove House offered a rare glimpse into local civic life, while also shining a light on the work of hospice volunteers supporting families across the community.
Residents from Caddington Grove were invited to a coffee morning at Grove House on High Street North, where they were welcomed by the Mayor, Councillor Sally Kimondo. The visit centred around raising awareness for Hospice at Home Volunteers, a local service providing support to people with life-limiting illnesses and their families.
During the morning, residents were given a private tour of the building, including the upper rooms, and had the opportunity to spend time with the Mayor, learning more about her role and the work happening across the local area.
For many, it was the small, unexpected moments that stayed with them. Sitting behind the Mayor’s desk quickly became a highlight, with plenty of smiles and laughter as residents took in the surroundings from a different perspective.
Mags Barton, a resident at Caddington Grove, reflected on the experience:
“It was such a wonderful day. We couldn’t resist sitting behind the Mayor’s desk. It really made us feel part of something important.”
That sense of connection carried throughout the visit. Conversations flowed easily, and there was a shared feeling of being part of something bigger within the local community.
The visit also offered a chance to highlight the vital role of Hospice at Home Volunteers. The service provides practical help, companionship and emotional support, helping people remain in familiar surroundings during difficult times.
Councillor Kimondo spoke about her chosen charities for the year, including Hospice at Home Volunteers and CHUMS, reinforcing the importance of community-led support.
Emma Burns, Home Manager at Caddington Grove Care Home, said:
“Our residents and team were honoured to be part of such a meaningful event. It was a chance to highlight the importance of community partnerships and the incredible impact of volunteer-led services.”
For some residents, the visit also brought back personal memories and a deeper connection to the area.
Jack Hart shared:
“We were delighted to sit in the Mayor’s chair and take in the views over the gardens. It was a memorable experience that brought back lots of memories and gave us all something to talk about. It really lifted everyone’s spirits.”
Experiences like this form part of daily life at Caddington Grove, where activities are shaped around connection, conversation and a continued sense of purpose.
Community engagement plays an important role at Caddington Grove Care Home in Dunstable, with regular events and partnerships supporting both residents and local causes.
Whether it’s taking part in local initiatives or welcoming the community into the home, these moments help residents stay connected to the world around them while enjoying a supportive and familiar environment.
For families exploring residential care in Dunstable, or looking into dementia care at Caddington Grove, seeing how residents remain active and involved in their community can offer a clearer picture of daily life in the home.