Care and nursing homes in the Country Court group have welcomed young people into their homes throughout this academic year as part of the YOPEY Dementia Befriender initiative. This important intergenerational work is coordinated by Tony Gearing MBE of the charity YOPEY which builds relationships between care home operators and secondary schools. Established in 2012, YOPEY gives young people the opportunity to contribute to their communities through volunteering to provide company to elderly people living in care homes.
At Ferrars Hall Care Home in Huntingdon residents enjoyed meeting students from Hinchingbrooke School and Cambridge Regional College.
“Over the months, the students have built up meaningful relationships with our residents, many of whom are living with dementia. We can see the students' visits have a positive impact on people's moods and overall wellbeing. In addition, they are a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain first-hand experience of dementia and learn about life in a care home. We hope the experience will inspire some to pursue a career in the care sector.” Explained Susan Dunnell, Home Manager at Ferrars Hall Care Home.
Tony Gearing said: “YOPEY loves giving young people the opportunity to both enrich the lives of care home residents but also to learn wisdom from their elders. Following our training, students from Hinchingbrooke School and Cambridge Regional College are doing a great job at Ferrars Hall, a lovely care home.”
After her second visit student Shannon commented “I met Joyce again and she almost remembered my name. It was knit and natter, and luckily, I had some knitting skills, so I joined in. Joyce gave me a hug near the end to say goodbye. I hope I made them smile as much as they made me smile.”
Student Pavanilaa reported, “I … talked to Gladis who said she used to work in a restaurant and also was the captain of the school netball team as the goal shooter. This got me very excited to know she played the same sport I play. This session as a whole was definitely my favourite so far as I managed to have a good conversation that was engaging both ways”.
“Here at Ferrars Hall Care Home, we have first-hand experience of how challenging life can be for families who have a loved one living with dementia. We are lucky to live in a place recognised as one of the first Intergenerational Dementia Friendly towns. We know our residents benefit from being in such a supportive community here in Huntingdon, where we can take advantage of initiatives such as the YOPEY Dementia Befriender Community Partnership.”Commented Katie Peters, Senior Customer Relations Manager at Ferrars Hall.
For more information about life at Ferrars Hall Care Home please contact katie.peters@countrycourtcare.com or call 01480 456359.
