We were over the moon to welcome a group of young volunteers into our homes this summer.
The young people were part of two innovative volunteering programmes; the National Citizen Service (NCS) and Headstart.
NCS is a government-backed programme open to young people between the ages of fifteen and seventeen. It helps them develop skills for their working life and the transition into adulthood, while giving back to their local community.
Headstart, connects young people to local volunteering opportunities and provides a guaranteed job interview to those who give 16+ hours of their time.
Both groups of volunteers have been busy all summer on projects designed to help our residents and develop vital skills they will need as they enter the workplace.
The first project took place at Shepley House. As the home had recently put up some greenhouses and has apple trees, it was decided to create an allotment area. During the volunteer day, the young people constructed two raised beds and planted them out, one with vegetable seeds and one with fruit. Shepley House residents will be involved in helping to look after the fruit and vegetables, which will be used by the home’s catering team. You can read more about this project here.
The second project took place at Lisburne Court. It was whilst the group was sitting outside discussing plans, that they realised the area around them could benefit from some brightening up. The young people came up with a mural design, which was painted onto wood and attached to the building. Circles of wood, from a felled tree, were decorated by residents and the young people working together. These will be hung from tree branches, as a memory of the day. You can read more about this project here.
To raise money for the materials to complete their project, both groups of volunteers did a sponsored litter pick around the art trail of giant painted frogs in Stockport.
Meanwhile, our Headstart volunteers have been busy planning fundraising events for our Resident Amenity Fund, which provides the little extras that make life more colourful for our residents. The first project was a ‘PlayStreet Youth Volunteering Challenge’ at Wellcroft for residents, their friends and family, and the wider community. It featured a photo booth, outdoor summer themed games and a tombola. The event raised much needed funds and was a fun day for everyone.
Silverdale will be working with Headstart in October, on a project called ‘Shared Lives.’ The volunteers will be speaking with residents to capture their life stories and explore the differences and commonalities they have with them.
Geraldine Blow, Borough Care Area Manager, says: “It has been fantastic to welcome so many enthusiastic and imaginative young people to Borough Care. We are committed to maintaining strong links with the community and these wonderful projects are helping us to do that. Being able to provide young people with the skills they need to enter the world of work, whilst giving our residents the chance to take part in these fun and exciting projects, means it’s a win-win for everyone.”
We’re always looking for volunteers. Whether that’s fundraising, gardening or something as simple as a game of cards with a resident. Speak with the home manager to find out how you can get involved.
