MOVING house can be stressful at the best of times and moving into a care home brings its own challenges.
But, for new residents at Eastside Gardens, Wallsend, it is easier than for most – thanks to the efforts of 76-year-old John ‘Paddy’ Carrol.
Determined to ensure that everyone who enters the home – whether resident or visitor – is given the warmest of welcomes, Paddy takes his place in the foyer every morning to greet them.
He then helps new residents settle in, become familiar with the home’s layout and introduces them to other residents.
When visitors and family members arrive, Paddy’s will invariably be the first face they see and he always does his best to guide them to the right room or the right person before returning to his station in the foyer.
Paddy’s warm welcomes are intrinsic to the overall happiness of the home, which is rated outstanding by the Care Quality Commission and was recently praised by inspectors for its “exceptional service,” and “highly skilled staff.”
And, in recognition of the valuable he role he plays, he has been given the official title, Activity Buddy, which is printed on a bright red t-shirt, with a badge attached.
Before retiring, Paddy was a bin man with Durham County Council and Jade Richardson, deputy manager at Eastside Gardens, said: “He still likes to get up early and be on the go.
“Being our activity buddy gives him a purpose since he loves to be active and kept busy.
“And, along with meeting and greeting visitors and new residents, his rota includes setting tables three days per week, playing dominoes with fellow residents – he always wins – and handing out daily newspapers,” she said.
“He really encourages other residents to participate in the activity fun within Eastside Gardens.”
Eastside Gardens – which is owned by Prestwick Care – provides accommodation, nursing and personal care to up to 90 people, some of whom have dementia or nursing needs.
And Paddy, who has lived at the home since July 2025, said “I love it here and wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.
“I love it, I love my job, I like to work with the activities team and we have great fun”.
To make an appointment to visit Eastside Gardens or for further information, visit eastside.reception@lifestyle-care.co.uk