From Generational Gamers to Fable Play: How It All Began
In 2022, I started something called Generational Gamers with a simple idea — to bring a little bit of fun, connection, and play into care homes. I’d always believed that gaming could be so much more than just entertainment; it could bridge generations, spark memories, and create moments of real joy for people who might otherwise feel isolated.
Those first sessions with Home Instead Leigh were where everything started to take shape. Watching residents laugh, compete, and reminisce through games was something special. The reactions from both the residents and staff were so powerful that I knew this was the beginning of something much bigger.
As the idea grew, so did the vision. I wanted to find a way to make gaming and interactive play accessible to more care settings — not just as a one-off activity, but as something that could become part of daily life. That’s when Fable Play was born.
Fable Play takes the heart of Generational Gamers and expands on it, offering equipment, support, and experiences designed to bring play into care environments in a sustainable and meaningful way. It’s about breaking down barriers, encouraging connection, and showing that no matter your age or ability, everyone deserves to play.
Fast forward to today, and the journey has been incredible. The work that started in one local care home has now grown into a movement that’s being recognised across the care sector — and I’m honoured to share that this work has been nominated for The Care Innovator Award.
This award celebrates people who bring new ideas into care, making a genuine impact on both staff and residents. For me, it’s a reminder of how powerful a small idea can become when it’s built on passion, creativity, and belief in something bigger.
To everyone who’s been part of this journey — from the early sessions at Home Instead to those supporting Fable Play today — thank you. This is only the beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
💜🎮
Tom
Founder, Fable Play