Residents befriend teens to help them become top citizens

YOUNG people have been welcomed by a Tyneside care home – to help them build social skills and become top citizens.

Residents at Waverley Lodge Care Home, in Lemington, made unlikely friends with the teenage volunteers, aged 15 to 17, as part of Newcastle United Foundation’s National Citizenship Service (NCS.)

Young people on the scheme took on gardening, kept residents company and provided entertainment including games and activities throughout the summer.

Michelle Park, activities coordinator at Waverley Lodge Care Home in Newcastle, said: “The students were so enthusiastic and brought a touch of magic to the lives of the residents.

“They all worked so hard – digging out roots of old trees and preparing the ground for replanting with flowers.

“They baked, played carpet bowls and bingo, and even supported our residents with their armchair exercises.

“A deep bond was formed with one resident in particular. As a gift, they bought her a giant teddy bear – she loves it to pieces and it’s now pride of place in her bedroom.

“We can’t thank the young people enough for the time they spent at the home.”