Cambridgeshire: Keys to Open Minds care home campaign launches

The Orchards Care Home in Ely and Rose Cottage in Huntingdon have launched Keys to Open Minds where large keys carrying myth-busting messages are being placed in public places encouraging people to reconsider preconceptions about care homes. 

The keys are designed to create intrigue and to encourage people of all ages to engage with the reality of care home life, join the conversation on social media at #KeysToOpenMinds or visit the homes to see first-hand. 

The campaign, which launches in time to mark Care Home Open Week 2023 (June 26 – July 2), comes after reflecting on the perceived divide between public understanding and the reality of care home life. 

The campaign, which launches in time to mark Care Home Open Week 2023 (June 26 – July 2), comes after reflecting on the perceived divide between public understanding and the reality of care home life. (Image: Greensleeves Care)

For people like Margaret, 81, moving to a care home three years ago was nothing like she expected.  

She said:“If you would have said a few years ago I was going into a care home, I would have said “get stuffed!” My opinion was that I would be told what to do, when, and how to do it. 

“I now know that life in a care home is good, I am still very much in control of my life despite living in a care home. I can still make decisions myself and find the staff helpful and caring. I feel here I still have a purpose.” 

Director of business development at Greensleeves Care, Shona King, said:“The main aim of our Keys to Open Minds campaign is to prompt better conversations, reduce stigma around care homes and encourage people to reconsider their preconceptions."

Anyone who finds a key in the local area is invited to either leave it for others to find, or take it to The Orchards or Rose Cottage on Friday 30 June and exchange for a treat.