Step into a story: Worcestershire care home residents join forces with local youngsters for National Storytelling Week

Residents at a care home in Worcester have been reading classic children’s books with local youngsters to celebrate National Storytelling Week.

Sharing their love of reading, residents from Care UK’s Perry Manor, on Charles Hastings Way, welcomed children from Debutots into the home to read some beloved stories together as part of the nationwide initiative.

The children sat with the residents, who had been practicing their character voices, to enjoy a retelling of classic children’s tales including Who’s Hiding in the Snow?

Commenting on the afternoon, Myrtle, aged 87, said: “It’s extremely important for children to learn to read and find enjoyment in books.”

Katherine Matthews, Home Manager at Perry Manor, said: “We’ve had a wonderful week of storytelling here at Perry Manor. Children’s literature is key to unlocking imaginations and nurturing a lifelong love of reading, so it was great to welcome Debutots into the home for this special activity.

“Intergenerational relationships can be incredibly beneficial to both younger and older people alike and can help provide residents with a stronger sense of wellbeing and purpose. It was heartwarming to see the residents reminiscing over their favourite childhood stories and characters.

“We’re already looking forward to welcoming the children back to Perry Manor very soon!”

Perry Manor is a state-of-the-art Care UK home, which provides full time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short term respite care. Rated outstanding by the CQC, the home is designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema, cafe and hair salon, with plenty of space both indoors and out for relaxation and recreation.