How we put on the best Mother’s Day in our care homes

Top tips on memory scrapbooks and including the whole family

Make memories linger longer

Gill Heath, who oversees 350 care and retirement homes in the UK, shares her tips for the perfect Mother’s Day. And she maintains that creating the perfect day shouldn’t be that different in the cost sector.

Push the boat out

“Leave a little extra budget for smoked salmon, nut roast, dessert board or a slightly superior bottle of something. Red or white wine is always the most popular. Push the boat out slightly for events like this and it brings everyone closer all year.”

Elevate the experience

“Hosting the best Mothering Sunday is about elevating the usual menu with something different or unusual… while surrounding mums with their family.”

Those simple ingredients – and a little wine, fun and laughter – are key to an unforgettable breakfast, lunch, high tea or supper, says Elior’s Director of Care and Retirement Living.

“Make sure it feels special. Having children and grandchildren there will do that, so send out a formal invite so everyone can pre-order to make service easier. Laying on different activities in the build-up or adding something not normally on the menu grows excitement.”

Be inclusive and flexible

“There might be people who aren’t mums or whose family can’t make it. Offer treat boxes to all the women and involve them in any inter-generational activities,” says Gill. “Remember to include the men too, as it can be a lonely time for them.”

“If families can’t be there, offer a private dining experience on another day. The more touchpoints you create, the more likely your team will make it memorable. Think differently.”

Memory lane moments

Ask families to bring in old snapshots, create a memory scrapbook or let you know mum’s favourite music for a communal compilation. It’ll get feet tapping.

“One resident at a care home in Leeds came up with an idea of
showing pictures of the mums in their 20s and people had to
guess who each one was,” says Gill. “Everyone loved it.”

Surprise them!

Sharing a meal brings families together, allowing them to express love and appreciation, says Elior Development Chef Scott Stanford. “Special dishes evoke memories, create nostalgia and warmth so we use tradition in our menus to make their day feel even more meaningful. Breakfast in bed, afternoon tea and cooking together all add a personal touch we rely on when designing our menus. A classic menu with a twist can also be a lovely surprise and prove a real winner.”

Think of a theme and be brave

“Mums have wonderful stories to tell, so encourage that when you’re thinking about themes. Quizzes, bingo or board games also bring families together.”

Family bake-off events increase anticipation and provide a traditional calorific mid-afternoon treat, says Gill. “Or why not ask if a grandchild wants to play the violin or the scouts want to join a story-exchange circle. It builds strong community bonds and residents love it.”

Why not try our Banoffee Ice Cream Pie recipe?