Castleford care home residents enjoy animal safari therapy
Exotic creatures bring smiles and memories to Clitheroe residents
Castleford care home in Clitheroe welcomed a variety of exotic animals for a unique safari experience aimed at promoting animal therapy benefits for its residents.
The unusual visitors, including a bearded dragon, skunk, and skinny pig, were introduced to residents as part of efforts to stimulate memories, reduce anxiety, and encourage social interaction.
Resident Joyce Gibson expressed her delight, saying: “They’re all lovely animals, they’re cute. I’ve not been involved with animals for a long time, so this is new to me, but they’re delightful, I think they’re lovely.”
Another resident, Margot Fall, shared: “They’re better than people. I was brought up on a farm with cows, sheep and horses, but some of the others never see animals so it’s good for them.”
Castleford, managed by Lancashire County Council, regularly organises activities designed to support the emotional and physical wellbeing of its residents.
The animal safari was financially supported through a donation made in honour of a former resident, Glenda Pickover, who passed away in January 2026 at the age of 81.
Her family raised funds for the care home through events like a sponsored walk across Morecambe Bay, which included participation from some staff members.
Glenda's daughter, Beverley Howard, said: “Castleford was always homely and friendly and as well as massively missing my mum, I miss going there too. The staff are so caring and lovely towards the residents and there is always a lot going on.”
Reflecting on her mother's love for animals, Beverley added, “To do something in my mum’s name is really nice and she was an animal lover, so it’s quite fitting that they had an animal safari. She would have enjoyed it and I’m sure it would make her smile.”
County Councillor Tom Pickup, cabinet member for Adult Social Care, praised the initiative, stating: “Experiences like this make a real difference to residents and their wellbeing, and the animal safari also created memories and sparked conversations among the people who live at Castleford."
He acknowledged the generosity of Glenda’s family, "We're incredibly grateful to Glenda’s family for their generosity which allowed staff to create such a special day in her memory."