Care options: Where your heart is

Zoe Gater

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community

Wherever you call home in later life, make the most of your golden years with assistance and advice.

Home sweet home or a move to a new home? The options for later life care are many and essentially come down to any medical needs you may have, your budget, and your desired level of independence.
You love where you live, great friends, an ideal location with good proximity to shops and services so why would you want to leave all that behind?

Domiciliary care could be the answer with visits from a carer who will provide assistance with specific needs and personal care needs such as washing, dressing or cooking. Domiciliary care is tailored to specific needs and routines. With the help of a caregiver you can continue to enjoy your independence and to maintain the relationships and connections you’ve spent a lifetime building.

Staying in your own home may also involve a few changes with adaptations, mobility aids and alterations or additions to everyday equipment.

If you feel unsteady or unsafe on the stairs, now’s the time to invest in an Acorn Stairlift. Easily installed on almost any type of stairs, it will help safeguard your wellbeing and independence at home for many years to come. Acorn’s British-made stairlifts can be installed within just a few days even on non-standard staircases. Designed with you in mind, they are reliable and simple to operate, with expert help just a phone call away should you ever need it. Imagine being able to go up and down your stairs whenever you like, free from pain or discomfort and, most important of all, safe from the worry of falling. Now that really is reassuring, for you and your loved ones alike.

A bath lift will support you as you get in and out or consider swapping it out for a side -opening door which negates the need for climbing in and out if you’re struggling. If you prefer a refreshing shower then how about converting to a wet room-style alternative so you can just walk straight in and out? Make sure you have a suitable non-slip bath mat to step on to.

Simple “fixes” in the kitchen can ensure it continues to be the “heart of your home” with adaptive cutlery and aids to assist opening jars and tins being small but essential changes.

Fiona and Stuart are in their seventies and have spent more than 40 years in their semi-detached in a leafy suburb making a lifetime of memories, friends and fun and with family members close by want to keep up with all this for as long as possible.

Stuart explained how a few changes have made this possible for them: “We’re lucky enough to still be in good health generally but we all need a bit of help sometimes. I had a bit of a fall and with Fiona’s arthritis she struggled to do some of the basics I needed. For us, having someone come in for a few days for a few weeks made all the difference. Should we need further help we wouldn’t hesitate to ask for more home care visits if needed.”

More help may mean moving to a residential care home where you can enjoy comfortable living and a lifestyle that offers choice allowing you to live life your way.

Care homes offer companionship and community and activities to enjoy with others – want to get your hair done or enjoy a movie in cinema-like surroundings, enjoy picturesque gardens without having to do any of the work yourself or perhaps you just want to catch up over a cuppa or even treat yourself with an early evening glass of wine?

Julia took the decision to move into a residential care home when her own home became too much for her and, with a friend having recently made the move elsewhere, she decided to take a look and see what it could offer her. “I wanted somewhere I could still look after myself and have some independence on a day-to-day basis but with the added bonus of knowing there was help at hand if necessary,” she explained.

“I’ve had some problems with my hip so some days walking too far can be an issue. Here I can pop down to the café for a mid-morning gossip with my new friends, get my hair done and relax in the cinema room. Of course my family come and visit whenever they like and they have the peace of mind of knowing that I’m living my best life as I enter my eighties.”

Living her best life also includes taking part in regular activities such as quizzes, singing afternoons and arts and crafts as well as exercise classes to aid mobility and ensure Julia and others enter their later life in as best shape as possible.

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Enjoy an evening of open-air theatre at Basset Manor while supporting Citizens Advice Oxfordshire

Zoe Gater

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community

Zoe Gater

Illyria’s acclaimed adaptation of The Three Musketeers is coming to the beautiful grounds of Basset Manor this August, with an evening of outdoor theatre, picnics and a silent auction raising vital funds for Citizens Advice Oxfordshire.

Audiences are invited to enjoy a summer evening of swashbuckling adventure as Baroness Sheehan hosts an open-air production of The Three Musketeers at Basset Manor, with all proceeds supporting Citizens Advice Oxfordshire.

Taking place on Saturday 1 August 2026, the historic grounds of Basset Manor will be transformed into 17th-century France as acclaimed outdoor theatre company Illyria brings Alexandre Dumas’ much-loved classic to life.

Renowned for its energetic performances and spectacular stage combat, Illyria’s adaptation follows the young D’Artagnan as he sets out to prove himself worthy of joining the King’s elite Musketeers — Athos, Porthos and Aramis. Along the way, audiences can expect daring duels, royal intrigue, dramatic twists and memorable encounters with the formidable Cardinal Richelieu and the scheming Milady de Winter.

Running for approximately two hours and 15 minutes, including a 20-minute interval, the production promises an evening packed with romance, betrayal, humour and action beneath the summer sky.

Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic, blanket or folding chair and settle in for an atmospheric outdoor performance, with refreshments also available to purchase on the night. As the performance continues into the evening, warm clothing is recommended.

Alongside the performance, visitors will have the opportunity to bid in a silent auction, featuring a carefully curated selection of prizes, with every bid helping to support the charity’s work.

All proceeds from the event will benefit Citizens Advice Oxfordshire, helping the organisation continue providing free, independent and confidential advice to people across the county.

The venue is wheelchair accessible via a gravel path, and only assistance dogs are permitted.

For more information and to book tickets, visit ticketsource.com/illyria/the-three-musketeers-at-basset-manor/e-bgypjl.

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Meet the team behind Wantage’s community-focused Bad Knees Brewing

Zoe Gater

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community

We raise a toast to the Bad Knees Brewing team who have turned a home brewing hobby into a thriving community brewery on the Ridgeway.

What began as a hobby in sheds and garages has grown into one of south Oxfordshire’s newest independent breweries, with Bad Knees Brewing earning a loyal following for both its craft beers and welcoming atmosphere.

The brewery, run by Amber, Jack and Manu, was born from what they jokingly describe as a “mid-life moment”. After years of home brewing, they decided to take the leap and launch their own venture in 2024. Today, the Wantage pico brewery produces a range of small-batch craft beers inspired by the Ridgeway National Trail, proudly describing itself as “Where the Trail Meets the Ale”.

Having moved to Wantage relatively recently after living in places including Wallingford, Thame and Lincoln, the trio quickly fell in love with the countryside and strong community spirit. Their brewery sits just off the Ridgeway, making it a natural stopping point for walkers and cyclists exploring the ancient route.

Their black cocker spaniel, Florence, is a bit of a celebrity too, inspiring the brewery’s American IPA, Ridgeway Rascal. Four-legged visitors are welcome in the tap yard during open days, with the team praising local dog walkers Rambles for helping keep Florence entertained.

Community is central to everything the Bad Knees Brewing team do. The team credit friends and family for helping during busy tap yard events and is grateful to fellow businesses that have supported their journey. They single out Indigenous Brewery in Chaddleworth for sharing expertise and equipment, Oak Taverns for giving their beers an early home in local pubs, and The Malt Miller in Swindon, where they continue to source brewing ingredients.

When they’re not making beer, you’ll often find the team enjoying the local pub scene. The King’s Arms in Wantage remains a favourite thanks to its ever-changing craft ales and popular beer festivals, while the town’s other traditional pubs continue to champion independent breweries.

Bad Knees Brewing is preparing new seasonal beers alongside pop-up tap yard open days on Saturday, 22nd August, and 19th September, with hopes of pouring pints at more local festivals. As the brewery is only open to the public for these events, check Bad Knees Brewing’s social media for dates and updates.

For the team, however, success isn’t just measured by the beer they brew. It’s about creating a place where neighbours, walkers and visitors can share stories and enjoy good company. If they had one wish, it would simply be for a little more kindness, connection and community – values that already flow as freely as the ale at Bad Knees Brewing. Visit badkneesbrewing.lovable.app

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Friendship cafés helping older people feel connected across Oxfordshire

Zoe Gater

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community

From cuddling lambs at Roves Farm to sharing stories over tea in Faringdon, two friendship cafés are tackling loneliness and bringing older people together through companionship, community and care.

A cup of tea, a slice of cake and a friendly conversation can make all the difference – and across Oxfordshire, two community cafés are helping older people build friendships, boost wellbeing and combat loneliness.

This summer marks the fourth anniversary of the Roves Farm Seniors Friendship Café, a monthly gathering created through a partnership between Roves Farm and Home Instead Charities, led by volunteers from Home Instead Swindon & Vale of White Horse.

Held in the peaceful surroundings of the working farm, the café offers older adults the chance to enjoy refreshments, spend time with friendly farm animals and, perhaps most importantly, connect with others in a relaxed and welcoming setting. For many regular visitors, it has become a much-anticipated monthly highlight.

Keeley Lally of Roves Farm said: “We’re very happy to be able to provide a unique and engaging experience for everyone involved with the Seniors Friendship Café. Part of our ethos has always been to offer opportunities for people of all ages to experience a working farm, meet our friendly animals and enjoy the countryside. It’s a pleasure to be part of this wonderful initiative.”

As well as offering companionship, spending time with animals has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and encourage social interaction, benefits that visitors experience first-hand during each session.

Elsewhere in the county, the Faringdon Friendship & Memories Café continues to provide a welcoming, dementia-friendly space for older people, their families and carers.

Supported for a second year by Faringdon & District Rotary Club, the café benefits from guidance provided by Dementia Oxfordshire adviser Maria Kempson, visits from therapy dogs Rosie and Tango, and a dedicated team of volunteers creating a safe and supportive environment.

Rotary Club President Mohinder Kainth said: “The Memory Café is more than just a place, it’s a lifeline for many in our community. It offers friendship, understanding and a safe space where people feel truly seen and supported.”

For Cat Attewell, Community Engagement Officer for Home Instead Swindon & Vale of White Horse and a Home Instead Charities volunteer, the impact of both cafés is evident.

She said: “These cafés are more than events for local people, they are lifelines. We see first-hand the difference that companionship, community and meaningful activity make to the wellbeing of older adults.”

The Faringdon Friendship & Memories Café is currently looking for volunteers to help serve refreshments and support guests.

To find out more or get involved, email cat.attewell@homeinstead.co.uk or call 01793 232585.

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Inside Witney Museum’s major heritage transformation

Zoe Gater

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community

Denise Berkley tells us about Witney Museum which has reopened with major heritage revamp.

A fresh chapter has begun for Witney and District Museum, which reopened on 8 April 2026 following a major redevelopment supported by a £198,096 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The volunteer-run museum, first opened in 1996, has undergone an extensive transformation designed to secure its future while bringing the town’s story to life in new and engaging ways.

At the heart of the project is a focus on Witney’s evolution since the closure of its last blanket factory in 2002, ensuring more recent history is captured alongside its industrial past.

Visitors will immediately notice the striking new gallery displays, created in collaboration with designer Sam Brown and studio work-form.

Inspired by traditional tenter racks once used in the town’s blanket industry, the installations give the space a distinctive and locally rooted identity.

A key feature of the redevelopment is the “Voices of Witney” project, which captures oral histories from local people, adding a rich and personal dimension to the museum’s collection.

Among those featured are individuals who have helped shape the town, from educators and creatives to community figures.

The museum also explores Witney’s wider heritage, including its long association with blanket manufacturing, as well as stories of healthcare and innovation, from traditional high street chemists to modern employers such as Abbott.

Chair of the management committee, David How, praised the impact of the funding. “We’re really grateful for the support from lottery players,” he said. “We’re proud to be launching our fresh, exciting showcases for Witney’s treasures and we see a bright future for the town’s heritage.”

Volunteer collections manager Beverley Sherwood highlighted the behind-the-scenes benefits, with funding enabling essential cataloguing and conservation work to protect the collection for future generations.

The project has also strengthened community connections, with new partnerships and plans for a Community Cabinet initiative inviting local groups to help shape future displays.

Housed in a historic Cotswold stone building once home to local builder Malachi Bartlett, the museum remains a treasure trove of Witney’s past and present.

The museum is open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm until October.

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How one Aylesbury volunteer is changing conversations around men’s mental health

Zoe Gater

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One simple question is changing conversations around men’s mental health – and one Aylesbury volunteer is helping men take that first difficult step.

“How are you?” It is one of the questions we ask every day. But for many men, the answer is often the same: “Fine.” “Not too bad.” “I’m alright.”

For Bucks teacher Steve, a volunteer captain for men’s mental health charity Talk Club, changing that conversation starts with adding three simple words: “Out of ten?”

“The number is personal to everyone,” Steve explains. “My eight might be somebody else’s five. But by giving ourselves a score, we stop and think about how we’re actually feeling in that moment.”

This simple idea lies at the heart of Talk Club, a men’s mental fitness and suicide prevention charity created after a group of friends lost someone close to them in 2014. They came together in the back room of a pub to talk, and from that moment a movement was born.

Today, Talk Club groups across the country provide a confidential, non-judgmental space where men can talk, listen and realise they are not alone.

Steve first became involved three years ago after looking for voluntary work. Already aware of Talk Club through one of its founders, he signed up to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise money for the charity.

“Whilst I was there, someone planted the seed about becoming a captain,” he says. “It didn’t take very long for that to grow.”

Since then, Steve has run regular sessions in Aylesbury, including Talk & Listen meetings and Talk & Box sessions at Pegasus Gym, where men combine conversation with pad work and physical activity.

“It’s not punching each other!” Steve laughs. “But that burst of intense exercise can do wonders.”

Talk Club’s approach is proving powerful. On average, members leave a session with their scores rising by 15%. But Steve believes one of the greatest benefits is simply hearing other men’s stories.

“People realise they’re not the only one experiencing something difficult. There’s a huge comfort in knowing you’re not alone.”

The hardest step, he says, is often the first.

“For a lot of blokes, walking through the door is the biggest challenge. We’ve had people contact us and express interest but never quite make it inside. We understand how difficult that can be.”

The message from Steve is simple: there is no expectation to be vulnerable straight away – just come along and see what it’s about.

“We’re ordinary people,” he says. “The captains aren’t therapists or counsellors. We’re there to listen.”

Talk Club is always looking for more volunteer male captains to help bring sessions to communities across the country, while its free app allows anyone to check in with their own mental fitness.

Steve will also be at Live in the Park in Aylesbury on Saturday, 29th August, when visitors can meet him, find out more and learn how a simple question could start a life-changing conversation.

For more information, to find a local group or download the free app, visit talkclub.org.

You can also follow @talkclubaylesbury on Instagram or contact the team directly for more details.

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Free Family Fun Day coming to Headley Chase this June

Zoe Gater

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community

Zoe Gater

From live performers and fairground favourites to delicious food and community spirit, Headley Family Fun Day is set to transform Headley Chase into a vibrant destination for all ages this June.

From live music and stilt walkers to fairground favourites and family-friendly entertainment, Headley Chase is set to host a free community celebration this June.

Families from Headley and the surrounding area are invited to Headley Family Fun Day on Saturday 20 June 2026, with a packed programme of activities, food and entertainment designed to bring the local community together.

Taking place at Headley Chase, the free event promises something for every generation, whether that’s youngsters keen to bounce the afternoon away on a bouncy castle, families looking to challenge each other to traditional games or visitors simply wanting to enjoy the atmosphere with good food and live music.

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy performances from a live band, alongside a colourful line-up of entertainers including a magician, flower people and towering elephant stilt walkers. Classic fairground attractions such as Hook-a-Duck, Coconut Shy and Hoopla will add to the nostalgic feel, while face painting and glitter tattoos offer plenty of opportunities for little ones to embrace the festival spirit.

Food lovers will be well catered for, too, with a sizzling barbecue, sweet treats and refreshments available throughout the day, as well as a bar for adults looking to relax and soak up the summer atmosphere. Visitors will also have the chance to enter a prize draw to win a family day out at Hobbledown Adventure Park and Zoo.

Designed to celebrate local businesses and strengthen community connections, the event aims to offer an accessible day out for families while showcasing the best of what Headley has to offer.

Sarah Turpin, Sales & Marketing Director at Elivia Homes, said: “Headley Family Fun Day is all about bringing people together for a great day out. There’s plenty for children to do, lots of food and drink options, and a really friendly atmosphere, so it’s the perfect chance for families to enjoy some quality time and support the local community.”

Headley Family Fun Day takes place from 11am until 5pm on Saturday 20 June 2026 at Headley
Chase, The Drive, Headley, Surrey, KT18 6JS.

For those using what3words, use: ///worked.fonts.crib.

Entry is free and parking is available on site.

For more information, visit eliviahomes.co.uk.

In partnership with Elivia Homes

Elivia Homes is an award-winning housebuilder creating distinctive developments across the South East. Bringing together decades of expertise from its Central, Southern and Eastern regions, Elivia crafts thoughtfully designed homes that enhance the way people live. Committed to quality, craftsmanship and sustainable growth, the business delivers characterful homes and exceptional customer experiences, helping buyers find a place they are proud to call home.

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Join Paint Abingdon Pink for a day that proves community spirit really can change lives

Zoe Gater

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community

Paint Abingdon Pink returns this July 2026 with lots of family-friendly music, colour, creativity and community spirit, for Against Breast Cancer.

Abingdon is preparing to turn gloriously pink once again as one of the town’s most uplifting community events returns bigger, brighter and bolder.

Paint Abingdon Pink is back on Saturday 4 July 2026, transforming the Market Square into a sea of colour between 10am and 3pm, all in support of Against Breast Cancer.

Now in its 11th year, the much-loved fundraiser has become a highlight of the local calendar, bringing together residents, performers, businesses, volunteers and community groups for a joyful day with an important purpose.

What to expect

This year’s event promises a packed programme of entertainment, creativity and family fun. Town-centre shops and independent businesses will once again join in by decorating their windows in pink, creating a vibrant trail through the town, while Market Square will come alive with live music, dance, games, crafts and plenty of surprises.

Among the performers helping raise the roof are Abbey Brass, Rock Choir’s Abingdon singers, the uplifting voices of Harmony InSpires, the sparkle of Strawberry Fayre Majorettes, and live favourites The Undercovers.

Visitors can also enjoy face painting, a treasure hunt, a pink-themed “Hook a Ribbon” game, hand massages, tombolas, raffles, delicious homemade bakes and a sizzling barbecue.

Themed dog walks will be hosted by The Dog Spot encouraging four-legged friends to “get their pink on”.

Art lovers can contribute to a collaborative community canvas hosted by Beckrah Studios, while students from Abingdon & Witney College are helping shape the future of the event by designing a brand-new logo set to feature on future posters, banners, merchandise and social media.

A special exhibition at Abingdon County Hall Museum will celebrate the fundraiser’s 11-year journey, while organisers promise “lots, lots more” still to be announced.

Every penny raised supports life-changing breast cancer research, helping fund earlier diagnosis, better treatments and hope for future generations.

So dig out something pink, gather friends and family, and join Abingdon for a day that proves community spirit really can change lives.

To donate

To find out more or donate, visit against breastcancer.org.uk/charity-news/paint-abingdon-pink-this-july.

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Rare garden Open Day in Cocking to raise funds for Dogs for Autism

Zoe Gater

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Sculptor Philip Jackson opens his private garden to the public for one day in support of Dogs for Autism.

Enjoy a rare opportunity to explore the stunning private gardens of renowned sculptor Philip Jackson with a limited number of guided tours at his home in Cocking on Saturday 13 June 2026.

Set in the heart of the Hampshire countryside, the Jackson family are opening their grounds in support of Beech-based Dogs for Autism.

This special open garden event invites visitors to enjoy a relaxed afternoon surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, while helping to raise vital funds for a cause close to the family’s heart. 

Philip and wife Jean, who have long been passionate dog lovers, were deeply moved by the work of Dogs for Autism, a pioneering charity that provides highly trained life-changing autism assistance dogs to children and adults, completely free of charge. 

These remarkable dogs offer far more than companionship. They are trained to carry out specific tasks that support their autistic partners, from keeping them safe in public spaces to helping reduce anxiety and build confidence, opening up opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach. 

Visitors will be able to: 

• Wander through the gardens at their own pace  
• Enjoy homemade refreshments and cakes  
• Meet some of the charity’s dogs and volunteers  
• Take part in a raffle featuring a selection of unique prizes  
• Follow a sculpture trail designed especially for children  

Philip Jackson will also be offering a limited number of guided tours during the day at his home in Mill Lane (GU29 0HJ), giving a unique insight into the gardens and the inspiration behind them. 

Laura McCreadie, Fundraising Manager at Dogs for Autism, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Jackson family for opening their gardens and supporting our work in this way. Every pound raised helps us continue training and supporting our dogs, creating partnerships that can truly change lives.” 

Dogs for Autism currently supports families across the UK, with each partnership costing around £25,000 from puppyhood through to retirement. Demand for these dogs continues to grow, making community support and fundraising events like this more important than ever. 

The event runs from 11.30am to 4pm, with all proceeds going directly towards supporting Dogs for Autism. 

Tickets cost £6 per person, under 5s free, and further information are available at: dogsforautism.org.uk/philipjackson.

Tickets will also be available on the day with parking at Cocking Village Hall.

Well-behaved dogs on leads are also welcome, making this a truly inclusive event for the family. 

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Road safety in focus at Newbury Neighbourhood Watch meeting this July

Zoe Gater

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community

With a guest speaker, emergency service updates and a chance to connect with neighbours, this open community meeting offers a closer look at safety issues affecting the local area.

Locals are invited to a summer Neighbourhood Watch meeting in Newbury, featuring a guest talk from road safety charity RoadPeace, alongside updates from local emergency services.

Taking place on Wednesday 15 July 2026, the session begins at 7.15pm at Kersey Hall within the Waterside Centre (entrance via the side of Camp Hopson).

Guest speaker Kate Uzzell will be sharing insights into the work of RoadPeace, offering a closer look at road safety issues and support for those affected by road incidents.

Attendees can also expect updates from West Berkshire Police and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, providing the latest information on community safety across the district.

While there is no parking available at the venue itself, several public car parks are located nearby within easy walking distance.

The meeting is open to everyone, and residents are encouraged to come along and get involved in community safety discussions.

For more information, visit the Neighbourhood Watch Network website at ourwatch.org.uk.


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