To mark Stress Awareness Month, the team at Abbeyfield House New Malden took a refreshing break from their routines with a Staff Sports Day on Friday 25th April. Organised by Care Home Manager, Emanuela Petrescu, the afternoon aimed to bring everyone together for some light-hearted fun and a bit of physical activity.
"When considering ideas for Stress Awareness Day, the suggestion of a Sports Day from the team really stood out," explains Emanuela. "I chose to organise a Staff Sports Day because I wanted to create a fun, energetic way for everyone to step away from their busy routines and genuinely relax," explains Emanuela. "Physical activity is such a powerful tool for reducing stress, and I felt it was the perfect way to bring everyone together, share some laughter, and remind ourselves how important it is to look after our mental and emotional wellbeing — not just this month, but every day."
The staff embraced the opportunity to unwind and participate in a series of classic sports day events, including a run in the park, the tricky egg and spoon race, a competitive sack race, a test of aim with the bean bag toss, the collaborative fill the bucket challenge, and a friendly game of darts – there was something for everyone to enjoy.
The impact of the Staff Sports Day was overwhelmingly positive, with the afternoon creating a sense of camaraderie, leaving staff feeling refreshed and valued. "The feedback was absolutely lovely," Emanuela beams. "Staff told me they felt uplifted, energised, and grateful for the chance to enjoy something different with their colleagues. There was so much laughter and team spirit throughout the afternoon. It created a real sense of connection, and many people said it helped them feel refreshed and appreciated — exactly the outcome I had hoped for!"
Emanuela was quick to highlight the collaborative effort behind the successful day. “With help from Jay, our brilliant Activities Coordinator, Laura, our admin, and support from the wider team, we were able to bring the idea to life and make it a fantastic afternoon for everyone.”
The Sports Day perfectly demonstrates Abbeyfield House New Malden's commitment to prioritising staff wellbeing by creating opportunities for fun and team bonding. They not only marked Stress Awareness Month in a memorable way, but also built upon the culture and support within the home, and it’s clear that a little bit of playful competition can go a long way in boosting morale and creating a stronger, happier team.
Reflecting on the day, Emanuela said, "Organising the Staff Sports Day was one of the highlights of the year for me. It was incredible to see everyone laughing, cheering each other on, and simply enjoying the moment. It reminded me how important it is to make time for joy and connection. I’m so proud of the positive energy we created together. It truly showed what an amazing, supportive team we have at Abbeyfield House. I’m already looking forward to the next one!"
Discover Abbeyfield House in New Malden
Situated in New Malden, close to London, Abbeyfield House offers a welcoming home with attractive surroundings, local parks, and good transport links. Residents enjoy comfortable, private en-suite rooms, which can be personalised. The dedicated team provides tailored care, from general residential support to more specialised assistance for early-stage dementia, alongside engaging activities. The house features a landscaped garden with sensory elements, a calming sensory room, and a communal dining room serving three daily meals with dietary options. Short-stay respite care is also available.
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