Meet the Newbury care home residents crafting for a good cause

Residents at a care home in Newbury have knitted more than 200 baby bonnets for the local maternity ward.  

The talented stitchers at Care UK’s Winchcombe Place, on Maple Crescent, lovingly crafted and donated 242 bonnets for premature babies at Basingstoke and North Hampshire Hospital.

Made up of residents and team members, Winchcombe Place’s knitting club decided to knit baby bonnets after being inspired by someone who had a premature baby.

Knitting club member, Jill Miller said: "Knitting has been a lifelong hobby of mine, it helps me relax and gives me a sense of purpose. When I heard about the premature babies needing bonnets, I knew I wanted to help. 

“Making the donation felt incredibly special. Knowing that something I created could bring comfort to a tiny baby makes me smile It’s something small I can do that might make a big difference to someone else.”

The Winchcombe Place knitting club is always busy knitting new creations, with the team currently working on making covers for hospital bracelets and tubes for the neonatal unit.

Claire Cullen, Home Manager at Winchcombe Place, said: “The residents have poured so much care and creativity into making these bonnets. It’s been truly heartwarming to witness their passion and commitment, and knowing their handiwork will bring warmth and comfort to babies and their families makes it all the more meaningful.

“Engaging in crafts and other creative activities offers real benefits for older people, from boosting mental wellbeing to creating a sense of purpose and connection. The dedication these ladies have shown is incredibly special, and we hope their knitted gifts are treasured by every family who receives them.”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Winchcombe Place incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies. The home provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, in luxury surroundings with facilities including a café, cinema room and hair and beauty salon.