Tops Pokesdown on Wolverton Road, and Signature at Southbourne on Belle Vue Road, have joined forces to support the local community through a Joining Generations programme. They marked this special partnership with a plaque that was put up at the care home with the help of some of the children at Tops and residents at Signature.
Tops Pokesdown has been visit Signature, a home for residential and dementia care, every Wednesday. The children at Tops Pokesdown, have taken part in a range of activities with the residents, so far, they have played basketball, throw and catch, took part in drawing and made food!
Joining Generations is an initiative that aims to bridge the gap between different generations by encouraging interaction and mutual support. The program promotes intergenerational relationships and aims to create a sense of community between people of all ages.
Chloe Boon, Deputy Manager at Tops Pokesdown said, “From starting Joining Generations back in September we have noticed a massive difference to the children and residents well beings and confidence, this is evident what a great success this joining generations programme has been. The children have created lifelong and secure friendships with the residents which has been so nice to see. The residents and children look forward to seeing each other every week and have discussions about how their week has been so far and talk about any plans they may have. The children and residents bring so much joy and happiness to one another which benefits both the generations in a number of ways. Many of the carers have been surprised to see how different the residents act when they are around the children. The parents have been so delighted with this new programme and we have had lots of positive feedback”.
Many studies have shown that social interaction between children and the elderly not only decreases loneliness but can also delay mental decline, as well as promote a number of health benefits including reducing frailty. There are also a number of benefits to the children, including increased confidence, risk-taking and the opportunity to mix regularly with elderly people, which some children may not have the chance to do on a regular basis. The ultimate goal of Joining Generations is to foster a more inclusive and connected society where people of all ages can learn from each other and contribute to their communities.
Tops Day Nurseries have over 30 nurseries across the South and Southwest. The eco-sustainable childcare provider offers Early Education and Care for children aged 3 months to school age, as well as before, after-school and holiday clubs for children up to 11.