“Meeting older people and making friends with one of the residents was a turning point.”

Residents from Bournville Grange Care Home had been visiting children from Hollywood Primary once a week before their first Get Together. The older people and pupils had formed bonds over planting seeds, cooking, storytelling and singing.

On the day of their Get Together, one little girl asked if she could stand at the front and sing for everyone on her own, which she did beautifully.

Seeing the teachers tear up, we learned that this same pupil had spent her first year at school refusing to speak – not even answering at registration.

“Meeting the older people and making friends with one of the residents was a turning point. Teachers heard her voice for the first time at the care home” said Valerie Meehan, Regional Engagement Officer for Get Togethers in Birmingham. 

The residents enjoyed spending time with the children, too. Those who were usually less social began participating when the children were present. One resident with dementia remembered the child they were partnered with after the sessions and asked when they’d be coming again. 

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