Avocet Court Care Home in Ipswich plans to create a “nostalgia room” featuring a donation of royal memorabilia.

Inspiration for the room came after visitors brought a 1952 copy of the Ipswich Evening Star to the home. Responding to residents’ interest, the home decided to establish a dedicated nostalgia room offering residents an immersive experience and connecting them to their personal histories.

The room will include a collection of royal memorabilia presented to Avocet Court by Ipswich couple Betty and Roy Stansfield. The collection, comprising books, magazines and newspaper articles centred around the royal family, dates back to the 1940s. It covers weddings, anniversaries, stately gardens, and homes, as well as a souvenir brochure from the 1952 funeral of King George VI.

Avocet Court manager, Ruth Garnham, said: “With the late Queen’s 75^th anniversary last year and also the coronation of King Charles we know how much the royal family means to our residents. The team at Avocet Court is now looking at putting together the nostalgia room which would include many things reflecting the lives of our residents.”

The room will also include collections of stamps and butterflies from the past as well as vintage games and toys. It aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and foster a sense of community, connection, and shared history within the care home.

Avocet Court is owned by Athena Care Homes.