Ware youngsters put pen to paper for local care home

Home news

Jul 08, 2021

Residents at a Ware care home have not let the pandemic stop them from making new friends.

An intergenerational pen pal initiative began when Care UK’s Snowdrop House, on Baldock Street, received letters from year six pupils at Larkspur Primary Academy.

The first letters were received earlier this month, and residents were delighted to hear from their friends down the road. Their words gave residents the opportunity to reminisce and reflect on their own memories of school, while also connecting them to other members of their community.

Two residents benefitting greatly from the intergenerational activity are 90-year-old Pam, a former primary school teacher who taught at schools in both London and Ware, and 87-year-old Sheila, who has a keen interest in history.

Pam said: “I thoroughly enjoyed reading the letters from the children as it reminded me of the fond memories I have of my teaching days.”

Clare Crow, Home Manager at Snowdrop House, added: “We were delighted to receive the very special letters from our friends at Larkspur Primary Academy.

“Intergenerational relationships have proven to be enriching for both younger and older people, as they provide an opportunity for both generations to learn from each other. These relationships can be particularly beneficial for older people, as they can offer a sense of purpose and prompt conversation.

“This is the beginning of a blossoming friendship between our home and the school, and we look forward to meeting up in person as soon as we are able!”

Mrs McEwan, Head Teacher of Larkspur Primary Academy concluded: “The pen pal scheme is a fantastic opportunity to form new friendships and links to our local community, and children were delighted when they received letters back from Pam and Sheila. We are looking forward to taking part in even more projects with Snowdrop House as pandemic restrictions are lifted.”

Snowdrop House delivers a full range of residential and nursing care for older people, including short-term respite care, and specialist care for people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

To find out more about Snowdrop House, please call Customer Relations Manager Sharon Butler on 01920 897553 or email sharon.butler@careuk.com

For more general information, please visit careuk.com/snowdrop-house