The team at Meadow House nursing home in Swaffham is calling upon the local community to support its fundraising efforts to bring high-tech virtual reality equipment into the home, so residents can enjoy travelling the world from the comfort of the home.

Meadow House, which is part of the Healthcare Homes Group, provides residential and nursing care for up 38 people, many of whom live with neurological conditions, sensory impairments and other physical challenges. In light of the restrictions in place due to the Coronavirus pandemic, the team came up with the idea of bringing the great outdoors indoors using the latest virtual reality equipment.

The team is therefore looking to raise the funds needed to purchase the virtual reality headset and equipment, to offer an additional form of stimulation and engagement as part of the home’s varied activities provision.

Charlotte Walsh, Activities Coordinator at Meadow House came up with the idea, as she explains: “Due to the restrictions created by the pandemic, none of our residents will be able to go on summer trips this year however I didn’t want them to miss out. With a virtual reality system we will be able to travel and explore different places, without actually leaving the home. It will greatly benefit our residents’ mental wellbeing and will be an opportunity for all to try something new.”

Home Manager Joanna Jankowska adds, “Charlotte came up with the idea of fundraising for a Virtual Reality headset; it’s such a fabulous idea. Our residents will be able to take in well-known landmarks, views and immerse themselves in a virtual ‘away day’. We are aiming to raise around £600 for the equipment and so are planning a number of sponsored activities to make this possible.”

For anyone wishing to donate to the home’s fundraising efforts, they should contact Charlotte at the Meadow House on 01760 725146, or visit www.healthcarehomes.co.uk.