At Broomgrove we’re lucky enough to have young volunteers from King Edwards VII School that spend regular time with our residents. Their help and support is invaluable.
The pupils are studying Health and Social Care at either GCSE or A Level. They come to Broomgrove on a weekly basis.
We really feel and see the value of the relationship these volunteers bring to our residents. It also makes you realise just how many lonely older people could benefit from something similar.
The visits bring younger and older generations together.
Many of these school children don’t have older relatives or have that much experience of being around older people. Yet the relationships offer great benefits to both generations.
Older people love to be around younger people and the knowledge they offer younger people is incredible.
One of our volunteers, Hajara Farooq, loves playing scrabble each week with a group of residents and despite the 70 year age gap, they come up with the same words and make a real competition out of it – it is so lovely to see their interaction!
Age UK run a befriending service. If you feel you could spare time for a friendly conversation and companionship on a regular basis, that could really benefit an elderly person please contact Age UK on 0800 434 6105 or e-mail callintime@ageuk.org.uk
