Worcester care home residents lead intergenerational gardening session

A care home in Worcester invited children for a special gardening session.

Residents from Care UK’s Perry Manor, on Charles Hastings Way, taught children from local childminders the basics of gardening.

Sharing their love of the outdoors, the residents, many of whom are lifelong gardeners, helped the children plant sunflower seeds and gave them their top tips for a beautiful garden.

Reflecting on the session, resident Edith Grundy said: "It was a really nice event and lovely that the children got to learn how something as small as a seed can grow into a plant. My advice to the children was to remember to water the flowers after planting, which is very important.

“What I love most about being outdoors is the fresh air and seeing the plants grow, except for the weeds of course!"

The activity was part of National Children’s Gardening Week, where gardeners from the older generation are encouraged to inspire the next generation of green thumbs by imparting their own wisdom.

Katherine Matthews, Home Manager at Perry Manor, said: “It was wonderful to welcome children into the home to plant sunflowers with the residents. Everyone had a lovely time gardening together, and we look forward to watching the sunflowers grow in the weeks to come.

“Gardening is very popular here at Perry Manor; many residents have a true green thumb, and it’s a brilliant way to spend time outdoors and stay active. The session also gave them a brilliant opportunity to pass down their skills while boosting everyone’s confidence. 

“We hope the children will visit us again soon to see their hard work blossom; we’re already looking forward to our next session!”

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.