Norma's care home jigsaw challenge complete

A resident at Norwich-based care home Corton House has completed an incredible 70 jigsaw puzzles in celebration of the home’s 70th anniversary this year.

Norma Goose, who has been living in the not-for-profit care home for almost three years, believes that “happiness in life is all about reaching out and grasping opportunities.” She regularly takes part in all the activities that Corton House has on offer, from arts and crafts to learning British Sign Language, and is one of the home’s Activities Representatives, helping to develop the activities and entertainment schedule and ensuring it reflects the interests and needs of residents.

“When someone new comes in, I always try to encourage them to join in with things and boost their confidence” says Norma. So, when she made friends with a new resident, Lilian Brownbill, and the two discovered a shared love of jigsaw puzzles, Norma decided to set herself a challenge to celebrate the 70 years since Corton House first opened its doors – completing a jigsaw puzzle for each year since 1952. Lilian recently moved to Manchester to be nearer family, however Norma has continued to complete jigsaws, with the help of kind donations from friends, neighbours and staff.

Now, she has reached puzzle number 70 – connecting an estimated 25,000 puzzle pieces along the way - and to celebrate this milestone, the team at Corton House have surprised her with a new house plant, a gift and card kindly donated by Langleys in Chantry Place, and some special jigsaw shaped biscuits to share with the other residents.

“It has been a rewarding experience and I am now waiting for my next challenge in the New Year!” says Norma.

https://www.cortonhouse.co.uk/