Spring has sprung at Saxonwood care home! | News

With the sun shining high in the sky and the daffodils blowing in the breeze, spring most definitely feels like it’s arrived. But for residents at Saxonwood care home in Battle, the spring time feeling has been amplified by the arrival of five fluffy ducklings.

Residents recently asked to see more animals in the home and so they were delighted to be involved in hatching ducklings, from the first peck of the shell to becoming soft, feathery and active.

Care home manager Sigita Kaleja said: “Our residents were enthralled by them and we have watched how hard they work to come out of their eggs and how quickly they learn to feed and water themselves. The residents absolutely loved them, especially those who have rural or farming backgrounds. Seeing the ducklings hatch brought back many great memories and sparked conversation.

"This short project has seen an incredible impact on our residents. They have been regularly checking on the eggs, with sheer anticipation! It’s brought excitement, laughter and happiness this springtime. The project has encouraged residents to be more active and independent as they’ve moved about the home to visit the ducklings. Staff also went from room to room to show residents who are looked after in bed, to make sure everyone got a stroke and a chance to say hello!"

Rosemary, who lives at Saxonwood was delighted and said: “It was fantastic idea. We watched ducklings growing, eating, and playing. It was a great way for residents to come together, communicate and interact.”

This activity is part of our sunny moments activity club, where we provide a range of daily activities to brighten our residents lives.