But that’s exactly what happened earlier this month for 20 people supported by Shaftesbury.
Our Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, visited Shaftesbury Bradbury Court in Harrow – a residential service for adults with physical disabilities – to see first hand the varied and vibrant social activities on offer there.
We know from talking to people we support, a royal visit is an exciting and uplifting occasion they will always remember. The room was a hive of activity, the excitement palpable.
Residents, staff and family members, all made a huge effort to welcome The Princess Royal and to show off their enthusiasm for the activities; whether it was baking, music-making, playing pool or the weekly book club.
The day centred on the Great Shaftesbury Bake Off, which saw residents weighing, mixing and piping to create a table of sweet treats to present to The Princess Royal.
Katrina, one of Bradbury Court’s star bakers, said: “I always enjoy cooking. I enjoyed doing the decorations for the event. Some of the fruits on the cake were arranged by me. This was special to me because Her Royal Highness could see what I always enjoy doing at Bradbury Court. Doing the baking activity will help me achieve my goal of being independent when I move to my own flat.”
Another resident Tina said: “I like the book group because it helps me to express myself and to listen to other people. We look at pictures together and discuss the story.”
“I’m a great fan of the royals and I think they do a great job. I was so nervous but I’m glad I had the opportunity to talk to her [HRH] and say what I wanted to say about the book club. I cannot wait to see the photos!”
Resident Brian showed off his pool and snooker skills, while staff member Ijeoma, performed her own Shaftesbury song which was written to commemorate our 180th anniversary.
“I felt both excited and deeply honoured after the performance – it’s not something you experience every day!”, said Ijeoma.
The celebrations concluded with the Princess Royal presenting certificates to everyone who participated in the Bake Off. She also talked to Alina, a member of staff who impressed the Princess Royal with her fondness and enthusiasm for cleaning.
Manager Margaret presented Chigo, the Enabling Support Worker who organises the activities. Chigo said: “I have such genuine enthusiasm for this work. To have Her Royal Highness value what we’ve done – I’m so touched.”
“It’s such an amazing experience for people like Tina who’s been a fan of the royals all her life. Brian is interested in horse-riding and met The Princess Royal through a riding club when he was five years old, over 55 years ago now! He can’t believe his luck that she’s here. He hasn’t stopped grinning!”.
Sally Chivers, Shaftesbury’s CEO, said: “We were delighted to show Her Royal Highness the lives of our residents and introduce her to the cooks, domestics and care workers who rarely get to talk to a senior member of the Royal Family. Her Royal Highness engaged with everyone at a very personal and warm level, which touched us all”.
(Featured image: HRH The Princess Royal at Shaftesbury Bradbury Court)