Creating a home for people to enjoy which also allows carers and other professionals to work requires particular skill. Each Hadrian Healthcare Group home is designed to be homely, luxurious and accessible throughout.

Rooms and social spaces are large, light and attractive. Colour and pattern are used skilfully in different areas. Varied finishes and fittings help create a domestic style with features such as library areas.

Two of Hadrian Healthcare Group’s chefs have won awards in the regional finals of the Care Cook of the Year competition, organised by the National Association of Care Catering (NACC).

Jennie Smith, a chef at Berkeley House in Hull, won best main course for her smoked mackerel frittata in the midlands regional heat and now goes forward to the national final.

Monthly tea dances are now taking place at St Aidan’s Community Centre, Brunton Park, Gosforth in Newcastle, led by popular entertainer Colin Sumners.

The events are organised by Allison Lawton from The Manor House care home at Brunton Park and are open to all.

Hadrian Healthcare Group has held a master chef style tournament for its catering staff, sponsored by Tyneside Foodservice and catering supplier Nisbets, at Northumbria University.

Hadrian Healthcare Group’s executive chef Simon Lawrence, winner at the national Care Awards 2010 and current holder of the National Association of Care Catering ‘Best Care Cook in the UK’ title, said: “Through the competition we wanted to highlight the work of our hardworking catering teams and recognise the talent we have in our kitchens.

A special ‘Lighting of the Tree’ event with fantastic fireworks took place at The Manor House, Gosforth (13 December).

Residents, relatives and staff welcomed the local community and enjoyed carols, mulled wine and mince pies together.