Castlemead Court Care Home welcomed Christmas last week, lighting up its festive display for residents, and MK Dons players popped along to enjoy the event and spread cheer.
This partnership between the care home and the football club began following the launch of the MK Dons Community Trust, which began to host regular physical activity sessions for people living with dementia, brain injuries, and other neurological conditions.
“I knew how challenging it can be for care home residents to attend activities off-site, so I reached out to local Care Homes to offer our support directly,” said community development officer, Mark Johnson. “I started with Castlemead Court—where my mum, who lives with vascular dementia, is a resident. Walking through those doors, knowing she could be part of something that brings comfort and happiness, made this partnership deeply personal to me.
“From our first visit, the relationship between the Community Trust and Castlemead Court blossomed. The staff saw—almost instantly—the difference the sessions made. Residents who are often quiet began to engage; smiles appeared, and moments of connection filled the room. It was clear that these sessions weren’t just activities; they were lifelines of joy, movement, and human warmth," Mark said.
“Seeing residents and participants smile, laugh, and feel included is what inspires us every single day. Those moments—no matter how small—are incredibly meaningful, and they remind us why we do what we do.”
Residents, players and friends and family sang Christmas songs, enjoyed mulled wine and mince pies, and counted down to the moment their lights illuminated.
“I was delighted to see our community turn up in their numbers to celebrate our Christmas Light Switch-on with us, as well as our friends from MK Dons FC who brought the festive spirit and raised many smiles,” said home manager, Grace Madenyika, “Occasions like this remind me how lucky we are to have the community behind us and support the work we do – it has a big impact on the people who live and work in our home and I am eternally grateful.”
