For Juniper St David’s retirement living residents, the Social Club provides the glue for their community.

“Socialising helps cement the feeling of community,” according to St David’s retirement living resident and former Social Club organiser Brenda Stubbs.

“We have a real sense of community here at St David’s with monthly functions that everyone can join in.”

“For some people, they aren’t able to get out-and-about so the Social Club activities are their social life. While other residents realise that while they are able to go out now, there will come a time when they will be less mobile but they will have a friendship base here.”

The Social Club organises fortnightly chat rooms to discuss current affairs and special interest subjects, a bingo club and a book group to discuss books, TV and film.

Throughout the year the Club hosts special events from high teas to Christmas dinner.

“I feel comfortable and safe here. We are in a great location and St David’s is not too big. We get to know most residents and can socialise or not, whatever we choose. When we close our own front door, we are in our own home. I have lots of outside activities but always feel glad to get back here,” Brenda said.

For Lyn Neacy, pictured, who took over organising duties of the Social Club from Brenda, community and continuity of care were a major drawcard of St David’s.

“The sense of community living has been a great experience for us. We’ve only been here 12 months but we have gained much by joining in and offering to be involved and by
chatting with all residents as we meet them,” St David’s retiree Lyn Neacy said.

Lyn and husband Tom, moved to St David’s with a view to settling permanently with easy access to ongoing care that would support Tom’s health and complication due to diabetes.

“I feel that if one or the other of us require additional care, it will be available and we feel very comfortable with this. St. David’s is now our home,” Lyn said.