Residents choose railway theme for new pub at Bennett Court care home in Pontefract

The on-site pub has been created as a vibrant and welcoming new social space for people living at the home, families, loved ones, and local community members to spend time together. 

Bennett Court, part of leading complex care provider Exemplar Health Care, supports adults living with complex needs arising from neurological conditions, brain injuries, spinal injuries, and physical disabilities. 

People supported at the home chose the new railway theme following a vote, with the option beating a Wild West theme after both ideas proved popular. 

The project shows how people supported at Bennett Court are encouraged and supported to make practical changes that link their interests to everyday life at the home. 

Tony, who lives at Bennett Court and has been a keen train spotter for many years, shared his original train photography for display in the bar, bringing the railway theme to life while celebrating the lifelong passion of people living at the home. 

The Evening Star Bar, named after the British steam train, officially opened with a launch party that welcomed people supported at the home, their families and friends, as well as guests from nearby Exemplar Health Care homes, including Willowbeck and Fairwinds. 

The launch event featured an inclusive quiz designed for people of all abilities, reflecting the broad range of support needs people living at the home have, with music, logos, general knowledge and interactive rounds encouraging everyone to get involved. 

With a keen eye on the coming summer period, the team also refurbished the home's portable bar, allowing use for outdoor future events, such as Bennett Fest, and to be enjoyed in the sunshine when the weather allows. 

The pub is the latest addition to Bennett Court's busy programme of resident-led activities and themed celebrations, giving people living at the home more ways to spend time with loved ones, meet peers from other Exemplar Health Care services, and stay connected with the wider Pontefract community. 

Hollie Semmens, Home Manager at Bennett Court, said:  "The Evening Star Bar has been a real team effort with the people we support involved every step of the way.

"From choosing the theme to decorating the space, it's been wonderful to see everyone come together to create a shared social space they can all be proud of. 

 "We know how important social opportunities are for wellbeing, and this gives residents another welcoming space to spend time with friends, family and visitors.

"The opening was a fantastic success and we're looking forward to hosting many more events here in the future." 

People living at the home now plan to use The Evening Star Bar to host regular quizzes, themed events, and celebrations throughout the year with residents continuing to influence events that reflect their interests and links with the local community.