Gibraltar nursing home giddies up for country and western festival
13 Nov 2026
3 min read
This #GoodNewsFriday we hear about a nursing home hosting a fun event with a country and western spin.
Gibraltar Nursing Home in Monmouth recently hosted its annual Country and Western Festival, bringing people together for an afternoon of music, food and community.
Organised by the home's COGS committee (Creating Occupation in Gibraltar to Support Social Skills), with support from team members, the festival transformed the home’s car park into a lively country and western scene.
There was plenty to explore throughout the afternoon, and residents who wanted to take part were supported to come outside throughout the afternoon in smaller groups from each household, helping to keep the atmosphere relaxed and allowing everyone time to enjoy at their own pace.
One family member, Gail, agreed to come down after a little gentle encouragement. Usually preferring to spend time in her own space, she smiled as she stroked the ponies, listened to the live music and finished the afternoon with an ice cream in the flavour she had chosen.
For another family member, Phyllis, the ponies brought back memories. Having spent many years showing horses, she has always had a deep affection for animals and fondly recalls meeting members of the royal family at a horse show.
Home Manager Verity said:
It was such a special day and so lovely to see so many familiar faces. We had relatives coming up to thank us for organising such a wonderful event, and hearing their kind words meant so much. The day really was about our family members and their loved ones.
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