Cards, cakes and candles – how Doveleigh Care made birthdays special during Covid pandemic

By Philippa Davies

5th May 2021 | Local News

The Covid restrictions haven't stopped Doveleigh Care from celebrating the birthdays of staff and residents, but it's had to be done in a different way.

Before the pandemic, residents were joined by family members for birthday parties in their care home, or the whole family might go out to celebrate, with a carer in attendance.

While the tightest restrictions were in place, with visits and outings no longer possible, many residents were still able to see and talk to family members on their birthdays and share the presentation of the birthday cake, thanks to a Zoom video link.

When the easing of the restrictions allowed socially distanced visits, families were able to come in and share the celebration from behind a Perspex screen, wearing masks.

Whether it's the birthday of a staff member or a resident, plenty of effort goes into making an occasion of it. Senior Manager, Samantha Evens, said: "We have personalised cakes, cards and balloons. We sing Happy Birthday with everyone, or if they prefer a quiet birthday, we do this discreetly with them.

"I have also contacted companies like Heinz, Croft Sherry, Guinness and Polo who, in turn, send birthday cards music CDs and treats."