Every year, the tenants at Ferndell, part of Swanton Community Services Suffolk, plan a special event to thank their loved ones for all their support. With help from the staff team, they turn their ideas into reality — and this September, they truly outdid themselves.
The Ferndell garden was transformed into a magical Wonderland for a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party — a colourful, laughter-filled afternoon complete with costumes, cheeky mocktails, home-baked treats, and plenty of tea! Friends and family joined the fun as tenants proudly served food, poured drinks, and brought the celebration to life.
Service Lead Peter Boult said: “The people we support came up with the idea during our Let’s Go Bananas! meetings — a space where they make decisions and shape activities in their home. Over the months of planning, they took real ownership and showed amazing creativity, teamwork and pride. It was a day filled with connection, celebration, and joy.”
From researching decorations and planning surprise costumes to preparing a delicious spread, the whole Ferndell team pulled together. Everyone had a role to play, and their teamwork shone through in every detail.
Some of the treats on offer included apple and pork sausage rolls, mini Victoria sponges, Wonderland-themed cupcakes, vol-au-vents, and finger sandwiches — all lovingly made by the people we support and staff to create a warm and welcoming tea party for all.
“The moment everyone appeared in costume was unforgettable,” Peter added. “There was so much laughter, and it was incredibly moving to see families, friends, the people we support and staff all coming together. The sense of pride and belonging was clear to see.”
Families were full of praise, commenting on how engaged and proud everyone was — and how inclusive, welcoming and joyful the atmosphere felt. The event was a shining example of Ferndell’s community spirit, where person-led planning and creativity bring people closer together.
Plans for next year’s celebration will begin again in Let’s Go Bananas! meetings in the new year — and with exciting early ideas already being discussed, it’s sure to be another special day.
A huge well done to the people we support and staff team at Ferndell for making it all possible. Your creativity, kindness and commitment made it a day to remember — and a true reminder of why Every Moment Matters.
