As the summer months unfold, care homes across the UK are preparing for one of the most beloved celebrations of the year – Afternoon Tea Week, taking place from 11-17 August. This quintessentially British tradition, which has graced our culture since the 1840s, holds particular significance within residential and nursing care settings, offering far more than just a delightful culinary experience.
A Tradition Steeped in History
The story of afternoon tea begins with Anna Maria Russell, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who in the 1840s found herself feeling rather peckish between the light luncheon and the fashionably late dinner served at nine o’clock. Her solution – a spot of tea accompanied by delicate sandwiches and sweet treats – quickly became a social phenomenon that spread throughout English society, particularly after Queen Victoria herself embraced the custom.
Today, this time-honoured tradition resonates deeply with many of our care home residents, evoking precious memories of family gatherings, special occasions, and simpler times. For those who lived through the post-war era, afternoon tea represents comfort, community, and the gentle pleasures of life – values that remain as important today as they were decades ago.
More Than Just Tea and Cake
Within the care home environment, Afternoon Tea Week serves multiple vital purposes that extend well beyond the obvious pleasure of fine food and drink. This celebration creates a natural opportunity for residents and staff to come together in a relaxed, social atmosphere where conversation flows as freely as the tea itself.
The informal setting encourages residents to share stories, connect with peers, and engage with care staff on a more personal level. These interactions are invaluable for maintaining social connections and supporting mental wellbeing, particularly for residents who may otherwise spend much of their time in their rooms.
Supporting Health Through Tradition
From a health perspective, afternoon tea sessions provide excellent opportunities to support proper hydration – a crucial concern in care settings. The gentle ritual of sharing tea encourages fluid intake in a pleasant, unhurried manner, making it easier for staff to ensure residents are adequately hydrated.
The variety of foods traditionally served – from finger sandwiches to scones with jam and clotted cream – can also help stimulate appetite, particularly important for residents who may struggle with regular meal times. The finger-food format makes eating more manageable for those with dexterity issues, while the social aspect can encourage reluctant eaters to participate.
Activities That Bring Joy
Afternoon Tea Week opens the door to a wealth of engaging activities that can involve residents at various ability levels!
Creating Lasting Memories
The beauty of Afternoon Tea Week lies in its ability to create new memories while honouring old ones. The sight of properly set tables, the clink of china cups, and the gentle hum of conversation can transport residents back to cherished moments while simultaneously creating new experiences to treasure.
For families visiting during this week, afternoon tea provides a perfect opportunity to share quality time in a structured yet relaxed environment. Children and grandchildren often delight in the formality and tradition, creating intergenerational bonds that enrich everyone involved.
WIN A £50 MARKS & SPENCER VOUCHER!
At THE CARER, we want to help make your Afternoon Tea Week celebration that bit more special. We’re offering one lucky care home the chance to win a £50 Marks & Spencer voucher – perfect for treating your residents to some extra special afternoon tea goodies!
To enter, simply:
• Host your Afternoon Tea Week celebration
• Take photos of your residents enjoying the festivities
• Write a brief description of your event (100-200 words)
• Send your entry to us at nominate@thecareruk.com
Whether you’ve organised a grand affair with professional entertainment or a simple gathering with homemade treats, we want to hear about it! We’re looking for creativity, resident engagement, and that special something that made your celebration memorable.
So dust off the finest China, press the tablecloths, and prepare for a week of quintessentially British celebration. Your residents – and your staff – deserve nothing less than the very best that this cherished tradition has to offer!
Submission deadline: 25th August 2025
Terms and conditions: One entry per care home. Winner will be announced in our September issue. The judge’s decision is final.
