SOME rather unusual guests paid a visit to Royley House Care Home in Royton recently – a group of alpacas!
The team from Calderbrook Alpacas brought along George and Ziggy – two very well-behaved young alpacas – to visit the ladies and gentlemen who live at the home and spread some joy.
Although the weather was a little blustery and overcast, everyone enjoyed some fresh air while greeting their guests of honour in the dining room, which looks out onto the recently renovated garden and patio space.
Rochcare, the company that manages Royley House, believes having things to look forward to and a sense of purpose is very important, and help people get the most from each day in whatever way is most appropriate for them.
They provide a regular schedule of activities, designed to keep the people they support entertained and engaged.
Activities include crafts, baking, gardening, massage and beauty treatments, gentle exercise classes, reading/sewing groups and trips into the local community.
Visits from alpacas aren’t a regular occurrence, making this an extra special experience.
Calderbrook Alpacas specialise in unique alpaca meet-and-greets and assisted activities in and around Littleborough.
The head handler said: “The alpacas have a gentle, inquisitive nature and their fur is very soft and tactile, which means they’re great for sensory engagement.
“They are a real talking point with groups they meet as they’re often a little cheeky and very funny to watch.”
Many people living in care homes have missed out on connecting with their family and community during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The visit from George and Ziggy was a very welcome experience for the ladies and gentlemen at Royley House and they hoped the alpacas had as much fun as they did.