As the Queen self-isolates at Windsor, the residents of Castle View retirement village do the same

“It was a unanimous decision,” says Lisa Fisher, village manager of Castle View, Windsor. “We could see what was about to happen ahead of the Government’s decision to isolate at home, and all the residents agreed that we should lockdown the village.”

To support the residents, Lisa quickly moved into one of the apartments with her dog, Benjy so she could live on-site, as did restaurant manager, Caz Hughes, while there’s also additional support from staff member, Colin Morton – who is himself 75 – and two night managers.

“No visitors are coming into the village and no one is leaving, while obviously residents are free to walk around the grounds and the Sky Deck. The community is deciding on their own activities which includes having an exercise bike on the roof terrace. Meals are continuing to be prepared here and served in the restaurant, while the café and two bars also remain open. And with residents volunteering to walk my dog he has never had so much exercise,” added Lisa.

Jill Holmes and Christine Heybourn

“There is a great atmosphere here,” said 86-year-old Jill Homes, “and a real Dunkirk spirit about the place. Of course, we are all fully aware of what is happening elsewhere around the world and the hardships many are suffering, so we all feel extremely fortunate to be in such a safe and caring community.”

To keep their spirits high residents recently took to their balconies to sing and exercise together, while maintaining a safe social distance from one another.

Patricia Powell

As well as the Dame Vera Lynn classic, We’ll meet again, other old favourites included Always look on the bright side of life and Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag. As well as singing Fionah Matthew instructed the group in some gentle exercises.

“It was fantastic,” said Lisa. “Led by our very own sales manager, Ruth Wilson on lead vocals, everyone was game to give it a go - such spirit and camaraderie.  I am really proud of them all.”

Norma George

“Singing all together like this just illustrates the great atmosphere there is here,” said 78-year-old Norma George. “There is a real sense of rolling-up-one’s-sleeves and getting on with things - a real Dunkirk spirit about the place and morale is high; the staff have been brilliant at keeping us all busy and entertained.

“We fully appreciate how extremely fortunate we are to be in such a safe and caring community and know only too well what others are having to contend with.”

Said Robin Hughes, CEO of Castle View: “The resolute spirit and unity shown by staff and residents is exceptional. Castle View is a fantastic place to live where our residents are able to mix with like-minded people, the importance of which is particularly evident right now.  There is a great sense of fellowship and camaraderie where everyone can socialise together, keep fit and healthy and be fully supported by our talented and committed staff.”

About Castle View Windsor

Recently opened and awarded The Most Outstanding Retirement Living Development in the UK for 2018, Castle View Windsor is a new generation retirement village where the emphasis is on living rather than retirement. Independently designed, built, owned and operated, this premium village offers 64 contemporary 1, 2 & 3-bedroom apartments. There is nothing better than to experience Castle View in person, but due to current circumstances, we’ve introduced our ‘virtual tour’. Enjoy familiarising yourself with the property and facilities plus see our ‘news’ section to get a flavour of life at Castle View.

Talk to us on 01753 378 127

www.castleviewwindsor.co.uk