Chestnuts - Bognor Regis

Chestnuts is a day opportunity service very near Bognor town centre, providing person-centred support for people over the age of 18 with a variety of care and support needs.

The day opportunity service hub is all on ground floor with the outside area having accessible pathways supporting outside sessions including raised beds for gardening, gazebo, seating areas.

Our building facilities include;

• A sensory bathroom with an accessible bath
• Accessible training kitchen
• Sensory/relaxation studio
• Art and craft studio
• Garden studio
• Computer suite with internet connection

Chestnuts provides a wide range of different sessions and activities that include:

Shop, make and bake session- This is where people are supported to plan to make an item or a meal. They are supported to purchase the items in a local supermarket, prepare and make the item or meal and then enjoy eating with the company of others.

Movement to music- Gentle exercise and movements to music to keep physically active with the aim of ‘to use it and not lose it’.  At times these sessions are supported with equipment such as resistance bands and balls.

IT Crowd- The opportunity to spend time on a computer with support. Learn and develop information and technology skills like sending an email, surfing the internet etc.  

Read all about it- A communication session where current affairs, local and national news are discussed. Within this session time is spent creating a quarterly newsletter for Chestnuts which includes photos and information of what people have been up to while spending time at the hub.  These sessions also include supporting the development of skills in design and using IT equipment.

Accessing local resources-People can be supported to access the local library and use services they have to offer, which include reminiscence sessions, books, games, and local information. Visits are offered in the local community which include going to the beach, Hotham Park, Marine Gardens, cafes and restaurants to help build people’s confidence.

Working with schools -At Chestnuts we are continuing to establish a relationship with Edward Bryant Primary school which is next door. Pupils visit the centre and spend time with us, they come and perform with musical instruments.

Sing and smile- There is the opportunity to choose songs of interest and recall positive / happy memories and sing along as a group.

My time- The opportunity for people of any age to have some quiet time to feel good about themselves. Whether it is having their hair washed, nails painted, or a foot spa, it is all about "you"!

Arts and crafts - making different items or objects of choice. Using different materials including paper, clay, and upcycling. Various skills can be used to make items to showcase and sell at our events.