Following the success of our Resident Christmas Party, our Later Living team decided it was time for another get-together – this time with sunshine, a Caribbean theme and plenty of summer fun. 

In July, more than 50 residents came together at MacDonald Court in Paddock Wood for our Summer Party. With colourful decorations, games, a healthy buffet and a karaoke disco, there was plenty to enjoy – but behind the fun was three months of planning and a real team effort. 

Three months in the making 

The Later Living team started planning the party three months beforehand, meeting on Teams every two or three weeks to make sure everything was covered. 

Everyone played a part. Working in pairs, team members took responsibility for different areas, including food, entertainment, games, the venue and timings. 

The team settled on a Caribbean theme with traditional summer fete-style games and a karaoke disco. MacDonald Court was chosen for its spacious lounge and lovely outdoor gardens, giving residents plenty of room to socialise both inside and outside. 

Liza and Val took charge of the decorations, transforming the venue into a bright and fun summer setting with colourful balloons, bunting, palm trees and tropical touches. 

A month before the party, colourful posters went up at every Later Living location. The team kept track of everyone who wanted to attend on a shared spreadsheet and worked with a local taxi firm to organise return transport – helping residents from different communities join the celebration. 

Time to enjoy the party 

After all that preparation, it was finally time to have some fun. 

52 residents attended, with a few more from MacDonald Court deciding to join in on the day. Many embraced the theme, dressing for summer and adding colourful Hawaiian-style flower garlands. 

There was a gazebo and summer fete games in the garden, a beach-themed photo opportunity to capture a memory from the day, and a raffle with prizes. But according to Wayne Lad, Independent Living Team Leader, there was one clear favourite: “The real hit was the karaoke – everyone joined in.” 

Thanks to our amazing compare, Pepe, the karaoke disco soon had residents singing and dancing together, creating exactly the relaxed, sociable atmosphere the team had hoped for. 

Of course, no summer party would be complete without food and refreshments. Independent Living Housing Officers Reece and Sue prepared and served a lovely healthy buffet, while Val and Richard kept everyone supplied with tea, coffee and soft drinks throughout the day. 

A day to remember 

The feedback from residents was overwhelmingly positive, with people enjoying the chance to relax, socialise and simply have fun together.  

Wayne said: “It was a great experience to see our residents letting their hair down, socialising and having fun.” He also thanked the whole Later Living team and the volunteers who helped on the day. From months of planning and arranging transport to serving refreshments and making sure residents had everything they needed, it was a real team effort. 

And there may not be too long to wait for the next celebration. Following the success of the Summer Party, the team hopes to bring residents together again for the Resident Christmas Party in November 2026. 

So, keep an eye out for more details – and perhaps start thinking about your karaoke song now!