Latest News - May 2026
May has been another busy and enjoyable month at Craigielea. Residents have enjoyed trips to Costa and The Stone Trough, walks around Low Fell, time spent relaxing in the garden, immersive experiences with VR headsets, reminiscence sessions, Smile Through Sport activities and live entertainment from a visiting singer. With plenty of laughter, socialising and memorable moments along the way, it has been a fantastic month for everyone.
The Time Capsule
The project brought people together to capture daily life at the home and across Newcastle and Gateshead. Items in the capsule include photographs, resident notes and poems, “day in the life” reflections, predictions for 2051, maps, local newspapers, sporting programmes, receipts, bus tickets, menus, trinkets and a USB with voice recordings from residents, staff and relatives.
Local schools and sporting clubs also contributed, ensuring the capsule reflects both life inside the home and the wider community.
Steve Massey, operations manager at Solehawk, said: “When you stop and think about it, the pace of change is extraordinary. Just 25 years ago, smartphones didn’t exist in the way they do today, and social media was in its infancy. It’s fascinating, and quite emotional, to imagine what life might be like in 2051.
“We’ve included everyday items like receipts, bus tickets and newspapers because they tell such a powerful story about ordinary life. Sometimes it’s the small details that show the biggest changes over time.
“Our residents have loved sharing their memories, writing poems and recording messages for the future. It’s been a wonderful way to reflect on today while looking ahead with hope and curiosity as to what life will be like for the next generation.”
Among the most treasured items are handwritten notes and future predictions from residents, offering insight into their hopes for technology, healthcare, sport and community life in 2051, alongside personal voice recordings.
“Steve added: This project perfectly captures the spirit of our homes, celebrating history, embracing the present and looking forward to the future. It has been inspiring to see residents, families, staff, schools and local clubs all contribute.
“In 2051, when the capsule is opened, it won’t just be a collection of objects. It will be a snapshot of real lives, real voices and a community coming together. That’s something truly special.”
The capsules have now been securely placed in the grounds, with records kept so they can be rediscovered in 2051. As one resident remarked: “We’ve seen so much already but who knows what the next 25 years will bring?”
Craigielea Welcomes MP Mark Ferguson - August 2025
Craigielea care home in Gateshead recently welcomed local MP Mark Ferguson for a special visit. Mr Ferguson toured the home, met with staff and residents, and had the opportunity to see the home’s newly unveiled cinema room.
During his visit, Mr Ferguson praised the team for the fantastic work they do in caring for residents and creating a warm, welcoming environment.
Mr Ferguson said: “It was absolutely fantastic to meet the staff and the residents and talk to them about all sorts of different issues that they’re facing, and it’s been particularly heartening to see how hard the staff work with the residents.
“In my past life, I used to represent care workers and I know how incredibly hard people work in adult social care. It’s some of the most important work in our communities.”
The cinema room, designed to provide residents with a dedicated space to enjoy films, television, and special screenings, has already proven popular among those living at Craigielea. It is part of the home’s ongoing commitment to enhancing quality of life through engaging facilities and activities.
Sarah Johnson, home manager at Craigielea, said she was delighted to showcase the home and introduce Mr Ferguson to the residents and team.
She said: “Staff are hugely important and we always try and keep morale up. That’s why we involve them in lots of fun activities, but also it’s great that our local MP has praised them for their hard work and dedication.
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Craigielea Summer Party - July 2025
Craigielea was transported back to the swinging 60s with smiles, music, community spirit and even an Elvis Presley style Pink Cadillac as it hosted its highly anticipated annual summer fair.
With the home decked out in colourful decorations and a 1960s theme, the day kicked off with an exciting visit from some exotic animals followed by an entertainer who took to the stage, keeping spirits high and the crowd dancing.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the arrival of the stunning Pink Cadillac, a perfect nod to the swinging ‘60s, accompanied by an original gramophone playing hits from the era transporting residents back in time for the fun filled afternoon.
The fair featured a wide range of activities and entertainment for all ages, including inflatables and craft stalls, and of course some lovely food. Local families, staff, and residents enjoyed the summer sun and the sense of community throughout the day.
Sarah Johnson, manager of Craigielea Care Home, said: “it was an amazing day from start to finish. We were thrilled to welcome so many people from the local community to join our residents in the fun. The turnout was far beyond what we expected, and seeing everyone enjoying themselves made it all worth it.
“The Pink Cadillac was fabulous and definitely the star of the show. You don’t see many cars like that on the roads around Gateshead!
“I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone that came along and to the people who made this day as incredible as it was, particularly the lovely people at the Co-op funeral parlour for their support.”
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NE Care Homes Staff Shortlisted for Care Awards - June 2025
Four North East care homes are celebrating as ten of their colleagues have been named as finalists in the renowned Great British Care Awards.
Ashton Court, Kenton Hall, and Kenton Manor in Newcastle, along with Craigielea in Gateshead, have all received this notable recognition. All four are integral parts of the Solehawk family, further testifying to the company’s commitment to outstanding care and dedication.
The Great British Care Awards stand as a significant national celebration, lauding the unmatched excellence across the care sector. Through these awards, a light is shone on the unsung heroes who consistently go the extra mile, often behind the scenes, ensuring the highest levels of care and compassion.
Spanning a wide breadth of 21 categories, the Great British Care Awards encompass the very essence of the social care sector. This includes, but is not limited to, care for the elderly, specialised services, and both residential and home care facilities. The range of nominees is a testament to the sector’s diversity, covering frontline staff like devoted care workers and managers to those spearheading advancements in areas such as training and innovation.
Craigielea had three winners and one highly commended. Sarah, our Manager, won the Home Manager Award, Edgar, our Clinical lead, won the palliative care award, Jess Michael our Administrator, won the ancillary staff award and Tracey, our Chef, on a highly commended in the Care Home Chef category. So proud.
Steve Massey, operations manager at Solehawk, remarked on this achievement: “It’s genuinely heartening to see our colleagues being recognised. Their relentless commitment and passion for what they do is what makes them stand out, and this recognition is truly well-deserved. It’s a proud moment for the entire Solehawk family.