Little Bramleys – the perfect pairing of growing up and growing old

They say there’s nothing like having children around to keep you young. This is certainly the case for Bramley Court’s residents who enjoy weekly interactive play sessions with local nursery children.

Residents and toddlers, ranging in age from 1 to 102 years old, join to share stories, play games, paint and get to know each other. The initiative is designed to promote intergenerational well-being and belonging. Whether our residents are receiving residential, nursing or dementia care – everyone gets involved.

Lisa Houghton, home manager, comments: “It’s been a huge success with residents and children alike.  Two of our residents used to be nursery school teachers, so they jumped at the chance to be involved.

It’s fantastic what a positive impact the sessions are having and how much residents are looking forward to it.”

Sessions are led by the team from the Histon Early Years Centre. Karen Scott, Head of the centre comments:

“The children have really embraced this initiative and they look forward to their weekly visit to “grandma’s lodge”. They are demonstrating compassion and growing in confidence as friendships develop.”’

Resident Dorothy says:

“I feel so happy here.  It’s lovely that the children come.  It’s like we are part of the community. They help to keep us young!”

Little Bramley’s launched in May 2018. Bramley’s residents now join the children at their forest school sessions every week adding another dimension to the successful initiative.