Castle View Team Set The Bar High With An Entertaining And Inclusive Cultural Day
The annual Cultural Day has become a key date in the diary for everyone at Castle View – an opportunity for team members representing many different nationalities to share what they are most proud of.
This year’s vibrant event, celebrating the diversity within the care home, saw everyone coming together to create a joyful experience for all - the result of months of careful planning and collaboration.
Preparation The Key to an Action-Packed Event
First of all, a committee of staff and management was formed to coordinate activities. Each country/culture put forward ideas for music that could be played or dances performed. Cuisine was discussed at length – including suggestions of traditional dishes from the different heritages - as well as clothing and the opportunity for staff to wear traditional dress. It was decided that the day would begin with a parade of flags representing every country, and Bob Marley's ‘One Love’ playing in the background.
The day before the event was dedicated to decorating the car park and preparation continued on the morning of the event itself – Friday 9th May. Balloon arches and balloon photo booths were set up by the home’s talented Filipino staff who also created the wonderful displays. Glenice was given a special mention for her amazing work. The running order for the day was designed with military precision and a clear timetable of events was set out – with flexibility to allow for things not quite going to plan!
A Flourish of Flags, a Musical Medley and a Global Buffet
The day kicked off in dramatic style as staff gathered for the colourful parade, with many different flags and national costumes on display. After the opening flourish, a fantastic performance on the bagpipes from the wonderful Ellan Vannin Pipe Band kept the party atmosphere going strong.
One of the highlights of the day was being able to literally eat around the world, with the chance to stop at each table to sample a different cuisine. Treats on offer included goat curry from Jamica, queenies from the Isle of Man, soda bread and Baileys from Ireland, stuffed grape leaves from Jordan, jollof rice and chicken from Sierra Leone …. not to mention delicious dishes from South Africa, the Philippines, Zimbabwe, Romania and more.
The band from the Restoration Hour Chapel performed later, and their uplifting music filled the atmosphere with joy. The Castle View team was also thrilled that their very special guests, his Excellency the Lieutenant Governor and his wife Lady Lorimer, were able to attend towards the end of the event, and they chatted with team members from every country and all the residents.
Inclusion, Respect and Outstanding Teamwork Make a Successful Day
Absolutely everyone took part and many staff came in on their day off to join in the fun. It goes without saying that there was a huge amount of behind the scenes support so that residents could be brought to participate, taste the dishes and enjoy the spectacle
The Cultural Day was not just a fun event, it was an opportunity to appreciate and embrace the differences that make the Castle View community unique - a reminder of the importance of inclusion, respect and celebration of all cultures. But it was also a wonderful display of team work! All staff including, Home Manager, Sam and those who had come in on their day off, helped to tidy up, putting tables back in their places, rubbish in the bins and getting everything straight again.
At the end of the day, where the sun had shone constantly and spirits had been high throughout, everyone was tired but so pleased with the day’s success and delighted that the residents had been able to enjoy the event. With the bar set so high, it would come as no surprise if the organising committee was already planning next year’s Cultural Day!
Discover Castle View Nursing Home
Castle View Nursing Home is located on the outskirts of the picturesque city of Peel on the island’s west coast sits, sitting within landscaped grounds, with stunning views over the hills and down to the sea. You’ll find first-class facilities, a range of activities for residents, a comfortable lounge and plenty space to relax in.
