A CARE home in Wavertree, Liverpool has been connecting the generations through a series of activities.
Project Generation was set up by Sandstone Care Group’s Oak Springs as a way for residents to spend time with younger people to swap knowledge and have lots of fun.
The children are family members of the home’s staff. They have been getting to know the residents and joining in activities with them and are encouraged to ask the residents questions about their lives, helping them reminisce and share their stories.
The children and residents enjoy a variety of activities including crafts, trips out to cafés and local shops, games and baking.
One of the highlights has been rehearsals and preparations for a special talent show after which the home hosted Oak Springs got talent! where residents, relatives, staff and children all performed.
Roisin Chaplin, activities coordinator at Oak Springs who organised the event, said: “This project has been one of the most rewarding experiences for everyone involved. You can see the joy on our residents’ faces every week as the children walked through the door, bringing so much energy, laughter and curiosity with them.
“For our residents, it’s about feeling connected, valued and part of something bigger. The activities really help to boost wellbeing and the children have been wonderful, asking thoughtful questions and learning about what life was like many years ago.
“Our residents love being able to share their stories, knowledge and skills with them and the friendships that have formed are genuine, the health and emotional benefits are clear to see. We can’t wait to continue building on this, because it truly shows how special things can happen when generations come together.”
Judith Leonard (resident) is pictured with Thomas Watson (resident buddy) using Thomas’ communicating skills.