Roll with it! Banbury care homes face off in friendly games competition

Residents at a care home in Banbury enjoyed an afternoon of fun and friendly competition as a neighbouring home joined them to celebrate the simple joys of traditional games.

Care UK’s Highmarket House, on North Bar Place, teamed up with visitors from Seccombe Court and students from St Mary’s Church of England Primary School to take part in an intergenerational games morning, bringing different generations together to rediscover the simple pleasure of playing traditional board games.

Throughout the afternoon, residents and their competing rivals took part in a host of activities, including a giant snakes and ladders game and a Kerplunk competition, with plenty of friendly rivalry and laughter along the way.

Linda Ellard, resident at Seccombe Court, said: “It was lovely seeing the kids having fun and reminded me of my happy years as a teacher. I most enjoyed jigsaws as a child and I still enjoy the challenge of completing one with my husband.”

The event was part of Care UK’s ‘Bored Games’ initiative – a nationwide campaign intended to revive the magic of family and community games nights. At a time when social media and online gaming have transformed how people spend their leisure time, the initiative is celebrating the simple joys of spending time together playing traditional board games and the memories they can create.

From community events and intergenerational activities, Care UK care homes across the UK are celebrating togetherness and reconnecting residents with the games that shaped their younger years.

Wojciech Kuczkowski, Home Manager at Seccombe Court, said: “We know how powerful games can be in bringing people together, creating opportunities for people of all ages to connect, and to share their favourite games and cherished memories.

“Whether it's discovering a new game, enjoying a bit of friendly competition or reminiscing about games played with friends and family, these moments help spark meaningful conversations, laughter and joy across generations.”

Francesca Cowley, Home Manager at Highmarket House, added: “It was truly heartwarming to watch residents reminisce and share stories about games they enjoyed when they were younger, while also discovering new favourites together.

“We’d like to extend a huge thank you to Seccombe Court for inviting us and making the day so special. We’re already looking forward to our next games night!”  

Seccombe Court and Highmarket House provide full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, the homes have plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.

For more information about care homes in Banbury, please visit careuk.com/care-homes/locations/banbury.

For more information about Bored Games, please visit careuk.com/company/care-uk-campaigns/bored-games