James Terry Court care home residents welcome visitors from the South Pole

Above: Resident Ron meets a friendly penguin at James Terry Court, in South Croydon.

Care homes welcome family and friends every day. Sometimes, they even receive visits from therapy dogs to support the residents’ mental health and wellbeing. However, staff at James Terry Court, in South Croydon, have recently gone one step beyond as they welcomed Pringle and Widget, a couple of little penguins from Heythrop Zoological Gardens.

Pringle and Widget coming into the Home like two long-expected celebrities.

Accompanied by their handler, the friendly animals waddled around the Home, meeting residents and staff. Residents were delighted by the visit, with many enjoying the opportunity to gently stroke the penguins and spend time observing their playful behaviour, creating a truly memorable and uplifting experience.

Resident Michael said:

Seeing the penguins was a magical experience, never to be forgotten.

The Antarctic birds waddled into the room, where residents observe their playful nature.

Resident Pamela added:

I really enjoyed seeing the penguins, and I was very pleased to be involved and to see so many people there!

Research shows that interacting with animals can help reduce stress and anxiety. It also boosts mood through the release of hormones such as serotonin and oxytocin, making experiences like this particularly beneficial for wellbeing.

Resident Bettina plays with one of the penguins.

[Summary: Staff at James Terry Court, in South Croydon, created a memorable experience for residents by hosting two penguins, Pringle and Widget, from Heythrop Zoological Gardens, who delighted everyone.]