The Care Home Legends Games returned to Thornaby Pavilion on Thursday 14 May, bringing together more than 120 residents from care homes from across the Borough of Stockton-on-Tees.
Participants took part in a wide range of accessible and inclusive activities, demonstrating that age is no barrier to staying active and engaged.
The event was officially opened by the Civic Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees, Councillor Bob Cook, who joined attendees in celebrating a day dedicated to physical activity, wellbeing and community connection.
The Civic Mayor of Stockton-on-Tees, Councillor Bob Cook, said:
“It was great to attend the Care Home Legends Games at Thornaby Pavilion. It was wonderful to see residents from local care homes enjoying the activities, making connections and spending time together in such a welcoming, positive setting.”
The event began with an energetic warm-up led by children and staff from TreeTops Nursery, setting the tone for a lively and uplifting programme continuing a tradition that has been central to the event since its early development.
Activities during the event included the Thornaby Pavilion Grand National, The Hungry Henrys game, table tennis, archery, balloon based games, a silent disco along with many more games all designed to encourage movement, enjoyment and social interaction.
The event was delivered by Tees Active’s Community Engagement team in partnership with Stockton Councils Transformation Manager Julie Nisbet. Support was also provided by Silent Steppers – Stockton & Middlesbrough, Sport For Confidence, alongside Occupational Therapy students from Teesside University.
Allan McDermott, Community Engagement Manager at Tees Active said:
“This event has grown year on year and judging by the smiles on everyone’s faces, it’s been a real success. The lasting memories created for everyone involved shows the power of inclusive, community driven activity and fantastic community partners. Thank you to everyone who attended and all of the volunteers who helped to make the event possible.”
Cllr Pauline Beall, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care added:
“Events like these play a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of our residents. Getting residents out of their care settings and into the community helps to reduce isolation, boost confidence and improve mental wellbeing, while creating meaningful social connections and experiences.”
The community initiative first launched with a pilot event in November 2022, bringing together several care homes to test the concept and gather feedback. It has since gone from strength to strength, with the Games now firmly established as an annual spring event within Stockton-on-Tees’ community calendar.
Find out more about how Tees Active are working with partners to drive positive change in the community.
