Norwich care home makes Norwich City superfans’ wish come true

Two residents at a care home in Norwich, Cringleford have scored big in returning to watch their favourite football team play.

 

When the team at Care UK’s Cavell Court, on Dragonfly Lane in Cringleford, heard about the wish of residents Maureen Powles and Richard Crockford to watch their beloved Norwich City play live at Carrow Road, they set about giving them the full fan experience.  

Maureen was joined by her son Kevin Powles, who is a devoted season ticket holder and has supported the Canaries for more than a decade. Having last attended a live match together in 2019, the day was particularly special for them both.

Maureen said: “It was a great experience to be back at the stadium and enjoying this special moment with my son.”

As well as watching the game, which ended 2-1 to Middlesbrough, lifelong fan Maureen shared her memories of matchdays from the past, including favourite players through the decades and her trips to the ground with her son.

Maureen added: “I have always loved watching football, but what made it especially meaningful was being able to share that passion with my son, Kevin.”

Maureen’s enthusiasm was matched by fellow resident Richard, who has supported Norwich since 1966, when he attended his first match aged 22. He cheered passionately throughout the game and was delighted to reunite with family members during half-time – a highlight of the day.

Richard said: “It was a fun day out and the boys played really well. Hopefully we'll win the next game!”

Maureen and Richard hung their goal on the home’s Wishing Tree, a special Care UK initiative that enables residents to revisit old hobbies and passions or try something new. Whether it’s a fish and chip supper, a skydive or watching a football match, no wish is too big or small for the team to try to grant.

Pedro Campos, Home Manager at Cavell Court, said: “Richard and Maureen are huge Norwich City fans, so we made it our mission to give them the opportunity to watch the team play again.

“The residents enjoy watching Norwich City matches whenever they’re shown on television, with team members on hand to make sure everyone is comfortably ‘match ready’ so they can share in the excitement together.

“Our Wishing Tree initiative is a wonderful way for residents to share their passions and ambitions, and it’s hugely rewarding to be able to make these dreams a reality. Richard and Maureen had a fantastic time and haven’t stopped talking about the game since!  

“I want to say a massive thank you to Norwich City FC and the team here at Cavell Court who helped make Richard and Maureen’s wish come true!” 

Cavell Court is a modern care home that provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema, café and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space – both indoors and out – for relaxation and recreation.