@ThePark https://bowdenderra.co.uk/ Mon, 15 Dec 2025 16:13:30 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/logo1-100x100.png @ThePark https://bowdenderra.co.uk/ 32 32 Christmas Party @ThePark 2025 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/12/15/christmas-party-thepark-2025/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/12/15/christmas-party-thepark-2025/#respond Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:57:24 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2585 The post Christmas Party @ThePark 2025 appeared first on @ThePark.

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Christmas Party @ThePark 2025 🎄

We had a truly wonderful time celebrating Christmas @ThePark on Saturday the 13th of December. The atmosphere was full of joy, laughter, and festive spirit, bringing together our service users, staff, family and friends for a memorable celebration.

A huge thank you to the band Zalick for their fantastic mix of Christmas songs and popular music, which had everyone singing along and enjoying the moment. Thank you, Kate, for captivating us with your beautiful acoustic music and allowing us to join in with your instruments.

We would also like to thank the café team for providing a delicious and beautifully prepared Christmas buffet that was enjoyed by all.

Thank you to our managers and the wider team for organising such a wonderful party. It was a brilliant day, and we are grateful to everyone who helped make it so special.

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Freddie’s Fibre Friends @ThePark https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/11/21/freddies-fibre-friends-thepark/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/11/21/freddies-fibre-friends-thepark/#respond Fri, 21 Nov 2025 16:38:49 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2519 The post Freddie’s Fibre Friends @ThePark appeared first on @ThePark.

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Today we had the pleasure of welcoming Julia from Freddie’s Fibre Friends to lead a Christmas-themed felt workshop. The session brought together creativity, calm, and festive cheer, the perfect way to embrace the season.

Julia’s journey with fibre crafts began more than four years ago, when she was working as a support worker providing one-to-one care. She quickly discovered the incredible benefits that felt crafts can bring: relaxation, sensory stimulation, and a joyful outlet for self-expression.

Since then, she has shared her workshops with care homes and schools, whilst also running sessions from her own home, where alpacas and sheep provide the very fibres that inspire her work.

Our group gathered to explore soft textures and calming techniques, creating festive pieces that sparked imagination and connection. With fibres in hand, we slowed down, enjoyed the process, and celebrated the simple joy of making together.

If you would like more information please visit Julia’s FacebookPage (1) Facebook

Freddie's Fibre Friends, Bowden Derra, Group activity with residents and staff layering felt sheets, promoting creativity and inclusion, @ThePark,

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@ThePark Fireworks Event 2025 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/11/11/thepark-fireworks-event-2025/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/11/11/thepark-fireworks-event-2025/#respond Tue, 11 Nov 2025 15:59:24 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2486 The post @ThePark Fireworks Event 2025 appeared first on @ThePark.

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We had a great Bonfire Night on Wednesday the 5th November and raised money towards our R.E.A.C.H. Activity Sessions.

As part of the R.E.A.C.H. Sessions @ThePark, Penelope chose to take photos of our Bonfire Night and write a piece about it.
I love Bonfire Night because I like the colours of the fireworks and I like the warmth of the bonfire and the colours of the bonfire.
It is nice to see friends and other people from outside of BDP, and the café serves nice food.

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Intensive Interaction, Total Communication and Active Support Conference. https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/27/conference/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/27/conference/#respond Mon, 27 Oct 2025 14:04:19 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2350 The post Intensive Interaction, Total Communication and Active Support Conference. appeared first on @ThePark.

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On Friday, 17th October 2025, @ThePark, we hosted an event in collaboration with the local Learning Disabilities Directorate from Cornwall Foundation NHS Trust: our Intensive Interaction, Total Communication, and Active Support Conference.
Empowerment in Action: A Transformative Day @ThePark.

This wasn’t just a professional gathering; it was the culmination of nearly two years of dedicated work, learning, and partnership. Together with the individuals we support and our staff, we’ve been exploring and embedding inclusive techniques that empower people to do as much as possible for themselves.

The conference was a celebration of that journey, and a showcase of how these approaches have transformed everyday life @ThePark. The event was held in our welcoming Central Park Hub. The atmosphere was warm, vibrant, and filled with connection.

Bowden Derra Park, Cornwall Care, Learning Disabilities, Care Home Cornwall,
Bowden Derra Park, Cornwall Care, Learning Disabilities, Care Home Cornwall,

The event was held in our welcoming Central Park Hub. The atmosphere was warm, vibrant, and filled with connection.

One of the most powerful sessions invited participants to reflect on the experience of being fed, especially when you’re unsure whether the food is hot, cold, soft, or hard. This food tasting activity sparked deep conversations about sensory awareness, dignity, and the importance of communication in care.

Over the past two years, we’ve been filming our progress, documenting real moments, voices, and growth. These videos were shared during the conference, and we will continue to be used as training resources for the individuals we support and our staff, helping reinforce learning in a completely person-centred approach.

For those looking to explore or develop their own active support skills, we recommend visiting Skills for Active Support, (HOME | Skills For Active Support) a fantastic resource for practical, person-centred approaches.

We were honoured to welcome staff from other care homes, who joined us in making the day so special. Their presence and participation added so much to the richness of the experience. The event featured a beautiful buffet prepared by the Central Park Café, with every need thoughtfully catered for.

Bowden Derra Park, Cornwall Care, Learning Disabilities, Care Home Cornwall,
Bowden Derra Park, Cornwall Care, Learning Disabilities, Care Home Cornwall,

A heartfelt thank you to Sharon, Julia, and Jerome from the NHS for their continued support. Appreciation also to Penny, Lisa, Aaron, and the management team @ThePark for their creativity, care, and commitment in bringing this event to life.

This conference was a celebration of what’s possible when we collaborate. With compassion, creativity, and commitment. Here’s to continued growth, deeper connection, and a future where every individual feels empowered to thrive.

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@ThePark-R.E.A.C.H- Exploring Photography https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/24/thepark-r-e-a-c-h-exploring-photography/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/24/thepark-r-e-a-c-h-exploring-photography/#respond Fri, 24 Oct 2025 11:03:19 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2316 The post @ThePark-R.E.A.C.H- Exploring Photography appeared first on @ThePark.

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📷 Exploring Photography – R.E.A.C.H Wednesday Group

As part of our R.E.A.C.H activity programme, Wednesday’s group have been developing their photography skills. Recently, we visited the beautiful Crowdy Reservoir, where they had the opportunity to experiment with digital cameras, supported by staff throughout the experience. They captured the local wildlife, the Reservoir and the breath-taking Landscape.

Upon returning, the group reviewed their photographs on the computer. In future sessions, they will select their favourite images, learn basic editing skills and gain insight into composition technique. Then save their work in personal digital portfolios so they can print and share them.

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@ThePark Sing and Sign Choir at Beaumont Court https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/23/thepark-sing-and-sign-choir-at-beaumont-court/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/23/thepark-sing-and-sign-choir-at-beaumont-court/#respond Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:14:03 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2303 The post @ThePark Sing and Sign Choir at Beaumont Court appeared first on @ThePark.

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The @ThePark Choir returned to Beaumont court on Wednesday the 22nd of October, to perform more sing and sign songs. We had a great time and enjoyed the cake after. We very much hope their residents enjoyed it too!

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Carnival week @ThePark https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/16/carnival-week-thepark/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/10/16/carnival-week-thepark/#respond Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:30:08 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2271 The post Carnival week @ThePark appeared first on @ThePark.

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From Monday 15th to Friday 19th September, we celebrated our third Carnival event @ThePark. What a week it was. Each year, we choose a different theme, and this time we brought the magic of the circus to life.
Every day featured a unique activity designed to delight, engage, and include everyone in our community. We kicked things off on Monday with a Circus-themed dance session led by Kerry, filled with rhythm, laughter, and plenty of clowning around.

 

Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.

 

 

On Tuesday, we welcomed Gemma and the fantastic team from Rhythm Sticks for a musical extravaganza. The room came alive with the beat of drums and the joyful sounds of a wide array of instruments they brought along. Everyone had a chance to join in, explore rhythms, and feel the music together. It was loud, lively, and absolutely brilliant.

 

 

Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance. Rhythm Sticks,
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.

 

Wednesday brought the thrill of the big top with a hands-on Circus Skills session. From plate spinning to hula hooping, everyone had a chance to try something new and show off their talents. The room was buzzing with excitement and a few impressive balancing acts, pure circus magic. On Thursday, we had a Sing and Sign Choir practice followed by bingo in our Café.

 

Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall Dance.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.

 

 

Friday marked the highlight of our week, the Carnival Procession around the gardens. Everyone joined in with colourful costumes, music, and plenty of cheer as we paraded around the gardens in true carnival style. The atmosphere was great, filled with laughter, clapping, and proud smiles.
To wrap up the celebrations, we held a judging ceremony where different groups were recognised for their creativity, spirit, and participation. Certificates were awarded.

 

 

Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.
Bowden Derra Park, @ThePark, Carnival, Cornwall, Cornwall Care. Cornwall, Circus Skills.

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James and Robin’s Gardening Journey https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/08/14/james-and-robins-gardening-journey/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/08/14/james-and-robins-gardening-journey/#respond Thu, 14 Aug 2025 14:48:28 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2100 The post James and Robin’s Gardening Journey appeared first on @ThePark.

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Robin began working at The Park nearly two years ago as a support worker, not long after she started supporting James with his course at Duchy College. James was taking part in various activities, including singing and signing, small animal care and gardening. Of the latter two activities, James said he enjoyed gardening the most, especially the physical aspects like potting plants, raking soil, and sweeping up leaves. Inspired by James’s enthusiasm, Robin came up with the idea for them to create four flower beds to attract butterflies and bees @ThePark. She chose locations that would be most visible to both residents and visitors, making the project a shared experience for everyone. Robin shared her idea with the management team, who fully supported the initiative.

Robin grew up gardening with her parents; her mother had a passion for flowers, while her father focused on vegetables. Wanting to pass on this knowledge, she used the opportunity to chat with James about how everything in nature is interconnected, from seeds to bees and butterflies. That built on the things James had learned from Duchy College. Together, Robin and James prepared the plots, each around 3m x 1m in size. They raked the soil to create a suitable seedbed. Robin brought in a variety of seeds that had been a Secret Santa gift from her colleagues, ones she hadn’t found space for at home. James scattered the seeds across the prepared plots, and at first, they used milk bottles filled with water to keep the soil moist. However, they quickly realised this wasn’t practical and decided to get watering cans.

Throughout the process, Robin talked to James about the environmental benefits of their gardening efforts. They discussed how bees collect nectar to make honey, and which flowers are known to attract bees and butterflies. James shared that he likes honey. Robin noted that whenever gardening is offered, James is always eager and enthusiastic to get involved.

Robin expressed how much she enjoys working at @ThePark, especially when she can support individuals through activities which she’s also passionate about. For her, it’s incredibly rewarding to see the joy it brings to the people who live at and visit @ThePark, and the environmental impact.

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@ThePark Sing and Sign Choir https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/07/18/thepark-sing-and-sign-choir/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/07/18/thepark-sing-and-sign-choir/#respond Fri, 18 Jul 2025 14:49:31 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2076 The post @ThePark Sing and Sign Choir appeared first on @ThePark.

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Our Sing and Sign Choir journey began when several members of our staff were invited to attend a four-day keyword signing course, provided by the NHS and led by Sharon. One of our colleagues, Lisa, described the course as enlightening, fun, and highly informative.
Lisa began using her new skills to communicate with some of the people we support, many of whom have had their signing abilities for several years. Lisa shared how rewarding it was to see their joy and excitement when they could engage in meaningful interaction through keyword signing with her and her colleagues.

Inspired by the positive response, Lisa proposed the idea of starting a signing group with her colleagues and the people we support here at @ThePark. After just a couple of sessions, a new and exciting concept began to take shape. Lisa approached our management team with the idea of forming a Sing and Sign Choir—a group that would combine music and keyword signing. The team loved the idea and offered their full support.
To bring the vision to life, Lisa enlisted the help of our Intensive Interaction and Activities Coordinator, Penny. Together, Lisa and Penny collaborated with Sharon to choose a selection of songs suitable for signing, including Country Roads and Red Light. The sessions were a resounding success, with both colleagues and the people we support thoroughly enjoying the experience.

The @ThePark Choir was invited to perform at the St. Piran’s Day celebrations in Launceston, thanks to an invitation from members of the town council. The choir thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and their performance was met with warm smiles and enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Following this success, the choir received another exciting invitation, this time to perform at Launceston’s Christmas town light switch-on event. Excitement and nerves were running high, but as soon as the choir began singing and signing, their confidence grew, and the joy of the performance took over. As if from nowhere, the town square filled with people, watching, smiling, and clapping along. It was a magical moment that highlighted not only the power of music and signing but also the spirit of community and inclusion.

The Choir has continued to grow from strength to strength, performing at a variety of events, often being told they were the highlight of the day. The weekly Sing and Sign practices, held every Thursday at 2 pm at @ThePark, have become a cherished part of the week for everyone involved.

The choir is also open to anyone who would like to come along and join in. For more information, feel free to give us a call on 01566-880340 or send us a message at www.bowdenderra.co.uk

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Family Funday Fundraiser! https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/07/17/family-funday-fundraiser/ https://bowdenderra.co.uk/2025/07/17/family-funday-fundraiser/#respond Thu, 17 Jul 2025 14:36:51 +0000 https://bowdenderra.co.uk/?p=2054 The post Family Funday Fundraiser! appeared first on @ThePark.

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On Saturday, 21st June, we held a Family Fun Day Fundraiser in support of Duchy College Progression Pathways.

We were honoured to have the Mayor of Launceston, Mrs N. Gilbert, officially open our event. We had over 20 stalls, offering a wide range of arts and crafts, cakes and biscuits, handmade gifts, local produce, and other unique items.

We were delighted to welcome two unicorns, Pippin and Merlin, from Therapy Tails UK. The children had the chance to groom them and walk with them around the gardens — a magical experience for all!

The day featured some fantastic performances. Our @ThePark Choir kicked things off with their usual energy and charm, receiving great support from visitors. Adam gave an amazing set on his guitar, performing a mix of contemporary and new songs.

Zalek (Pete and Zoe Zalek) brought a rock vibe with their electric guitars, delivering a high-energy set across various genres. Roland followed with his own performance, showcasing both his guitar skills and vocals across a diverse musical selection.

Everyone enjoyed a lively and fun performance from Kerry and her Lifton Line Dancers — they were a joy to watch and even had some visitors joining in! Cycling Without Age brought their Trishaw, offering free rides to visitors and sharing information about their wonderful volunteer service.

A big thank you to Sean Carter from Rapid Eruptions for keeping everything flowing smoothly between each act. your support was invaluable in making the day run seamlessly. We were pleased to host the Launceston, Cornwall Slow and Easy Folk Sessions group, who played a relaxed and engaging set featuring a range of traditional instruments.

Jodie from Changing Faces Face Painting added colour and creativity to the day with her fantastic face painting. There was plenty of fun for the children, including a bouncy castle and magical creatures walking around the event, including a unicorn and a shark.

A huge thank you goes out to everyone who helped on the day — thanks to your support, we raised over £800!

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