In the days following Remembrance Day, The Firs Residential Home has embraced the theme of reflection and gratitude by encouraging residents to share their memories of the wartime era. These heartfelt sessions have provided an opportunity to look back, remember, and appreciate the sacrifices and resilience of generations past.

Recent mornings were filled with conversations about evacuation and National Service—topics that sparked vivid memories among the residents. Stories unfolded of childhoods disrupted by evacuation, with some sharing poignant tales of being sent to the countryside, uncertain of what lay ahead. One resident, Dave, recounted his experience of signing up for National Service with great pride, reflecting on what a defining moment it was in his life.

“It’s incredible to think about the challenges they faced and how much life has changed,” remarked home manager Nicola Shayler. “Listening to these stories helps us understand and appreciate how fortunate we are today.”

One afternoon, residents delved deeper into the past with the help of ‘Talking Memories, Reminiscence Collection,’ kindly loaned by Barnstaple Library. This rich collection included sensory items, audio/visual materials, large print books, puzzles, and memorabilia packs, all designed to spark conversation and bring the past to life.

Residents eagerly explored items such as identity cards, ration books, and traditional cooking recipes. These tactile and visual prompts brought forth a wave of recollections, from queuing for rations to cooking with limited ingredients. Many were moved by the opportunity to share their memories, adding their voices to a collective narrative of resilience, community, and hope.

These sessions were made even more special by the sounds of the iconic Vera Lynn, whose timeless songs created the perfect backdrop for this nostalgic journey.

At The Firs Residential Home, these reminiscence activities serve as a reminder of the importance of keeping memories alive. They not only honour the past but also create meaningful connections in the present, as residents share their stories with one another, staff, and younger generations.

As the festive season approaches, the team at The Firs looks forward to continuing to celebrate the lives and experiences of their residents, ensuring their voices and memories remain cherished.