Children write to Oakleigh care home residents

Staff from a care home in Godstone are asking children stuck at home during the Coronavirus pandemic to write letters to their residents as part of Anchor’s #BeKindToOneAnother campaign.

Older people living at Anchor’s Oakleigh in Evelyn Gardens are looking for young pen pals to help the children pass the time while their schools are shut.

The carers at Oakleigh, who organise a wide variety of activities for their residents, came up with the idea after hearing parents’ concerns about keeping the children entertained during their stay at home. Children can also send in poems and drawings.

Stephanie Reeve, Deputy Manager of Oakleigh, said: “On hearing that schools in Godstone were closing due to the Coronavirus, many of our residents were reminded of the long school holidays and how difficult it was to keep their children entertained.”

“So we all thought why not ask local children to start writing to our residents or sending them drawings or cards as part of a meaningful activity for both groups. It will be a fun way for the children and residents to find out about each other’s lives and make new friends.”

“We’re obviously not restricting this writing project to just children so our residents would love to hear from anyone in the community too.”

Resident Dylis Francis, 95, who has lived at Oakleigh for two years, said she was looking forward to receiving letters and drawings from the children.
Grandmother Dylis said: “Some children have sent us paintings already so I can’t wait to receive more. It brightens my day to receive drawings and letters from the children. It keeps you in touch with the world.”

“I like hearing how the young generation learn compared to how we did back in the day, a lot has changed now. It was much stricter when I was at school.”

“I love writing letters and used to write to my school friends and bridesmaids when I was younger. Anyone can write a letter - it’s not the content, it’s the thought that counts.”

She added that as she liked painting at Oakleigh’s weekly art class, particularly pictures of spring flowers, she was also looking forward to seeing the children’s artwork.

Anyone wanting to write to the residents, should send letters or drawings to Deputy Manager Stephanie Reeve, Oakleigh, Evelyn Gardens, Godstone, Surrey, RH9 8BD.

People can also share this via Twitter sending to @AnchorHanover using #BeKindToOneAnother

Please view #BeKindToOneAnother for more details on the campaign.