Residents Welcome New Feathered Friends at Warrington Care Home

Residents at Coniston and Ambleside Units, located at Callands Care Home, are celebrating the arrival of four very special new members of the community – Bluebell, Willow, Lavender and Poppy.

The idea to introduce chickens came directly from residents during a recent unit meeting, where discussions focused on finding a meaningful, calming and interactive activity that everyone could enjoy together. After exploring the many wellbeing benefits of keeping chickens, the group enthusiastically embraced the idea and even took part in choosing names for their new feathered friends.

Keeping chickens offers a wide range of benefits for people living in care settings, particularly those requiring complex care and mental health support. Spending time outdoors, engaging with animals and participating in daily routines can help promote wellbeing, reduce anxiety, encourage social interaction and provide valuable sensory experiences.

Residents created a chicken-themed mood board to explore the benefits of chicken keeping, highlighting companionship, responsibility, reminiscence opportunities, fresh eggs and the simple joy that animals can bring. The final names were chosen through a group vote, with residents using tally charts to decide on their favourites.

Since arriving at their new Warrington care home, the chickens have quickly become a popular attraction. Residents have enjoyed watching them explore the garden, dig in the soil, take dust baths and dart around their enclosure.

The excitement continued when the team discovered the first eggs had been laid. Residents became "chicken detectives", carefully observing the flock to identify the mystery layer. Their investigation revealed Willow, the group's curious white hen, as the culprit.

Willow has also developed a reputation for admiring herself in the mirror, providing plenty of entertainment and laughter for residents and staff alike.

Chloe Sturgess, Wellbeing Coordinator at Coniston & Ambleside said "This project came directly from our residents' ideas and is a wonderful example of person-centred care in action. The chickens are already making a positive difference to wellbeing, encouraging social interaction, meaningful activity and plenty of laughter. Seeing residents take ownership of the project, from choosing names to caring for the hens, has been incredibly rewarding."

At Coniston and Ambleside, creating meaningful experiences that support wellbeing, independence and quality of life remains at the heart of everything we do. The arrival of Bluebell, Willow, Lavender and Poppy is already bringing smiles, conversation and new daily routines for residents to enjoy together.

We look forward to sharing more updates as our feathered friends continue to settle into their new home.

Discover care that's built around the individual.

At the Coniston Unit at Callands Care Home, we combine specialist support with meaningful experiences that enhance wellbeing, independence and quality of life. To find out more about our care services or to arrange a personal tour, contact our friendly team today.

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