Famous characters on display in the Elizabeth Finn Homes Scarecrow competition

Residents and staff at Elizabeth Finn Homes have been unleashing their creativity as part of an inter-home Scarecrow Challenge that has got everybody talking.

The Scarecrow Challenge was introduced across Elizabeth Finn care homes to mark the harvest season, celebrate the importance of thanksgiving, and shine a spotlight on the beautiful gardens and home-grown vegetables that residents nurture throughout the year.

The challenge also provided an opportunity for some light-hearted inter-home fun and creativity, bringing together staff, residents, families, and local communities.

Residents embraced their local heritages, each with a creative twist, designing unique straw figures inspired by famous figures connected to their areas. The entries included Agatha Christie, whose former home in Wallingford is close to Rush Court; a Wentworth-inspired golfer representing Merlewood near Virginia Water’s renowned course, and the legendary warrior queen Boudica symbolising Sussex countryside pride. The Cotswold Home’s scarecrow paid tribute to Jeremy Clarkson, whose famous Diddly Squat Farm sits just up the road, and who kindly donated a hamper for a charity auction. Rashwood in Droitwich featured John Corbett, the famed “Salt King,” celebrating local industrial history.

Using a mix of materials, many from the homes’ beautiful gardens, the scarecrows were lovingly put together with great attention to detail, with residents using their crafting and sewing skills.

Marketing Director, Anna Boyes:

“The creativity and detective-inspired flair paid off spectacularly, for the Rush Court team, crowned overall winners with their version of super sleuth Agatha Christie. The entries from all our homes were brilliant and fun to unveil, great examples of teamwork and camaraderie.”

The scarecrows are now proudly displayed at the homes for visitors, friends and family to enjoy and admire. Representing the warm, welcoming environment and spirit of togetherness enjoyed by residents and staff alike.

Elizabeth Finn Homes operates eight care homes across England and is a wholly owned subsidiary of the charity Turn2us. All the homes are rated Outstanding or Good by the CQC.

Elizabeth Finn Homes operates care homes across England and is a wholly owned subsidiary of the charity Turn2us. Although the company is run on a commercial basis, rent and operating surplus pass to the charity to support its work: www.elizabethfinn.co.uk

Since its inception, Elizabeth Finn Homes has sought to create joy in later life, providing loving homes where people – both residents and staff – flourish. The homes offer the highest standards of care and facilities, and a community where everyone is welcomed as an individual.