CARE home residents are set to have their days brightened by visits from youngsters as part of an exciting new project. 

First established in 2008, FaNs Network is a registered charity that aims to enhance the lives of care home residents across Essex with a range of projects, including Walk and Talk and Washing Line. 

The charity’s newest project, FaNs Network Granfriends, was recently rebranded and launched this year.

The project sees child care providers, such as childminders, nurseries and schools, visiting care homes.

It hopes to encourage children and the elderly to spend time together completing activities and sharing stories.

Kelvedon resident, Nikki Roberts, 50, started visiting care homes with her children in 2017 and now leads FaNs Network Granfriends.

“I swore I’d never work for anybody but myself again, but FaNs Network holds a huge piece of my heart for what they do in the community,” Nikki said.

“Years and years ago I used to help my nan deliver meals on wheels to care homes, and I just fell in love with mingling with the older generation.

“For me it’s all about getting early years child care providers into care homes.”

FaNs Network have launched the project in areas across Essex, including Braintree, Witham, Colchester and Tendring.

Visiting children and residents are offered a range of activities to work on together, including painting, flower arranging, gardening, song time, and story time.

“We just want to construct bonds across generations and across the community,” Nikki said.

“The activities really encourage residents to engage, which helps with their cognitive wellbeing.

“It’s about enriching lives of the residents and of course, for the children.

“Some children don’t have grandparents close by so it’s really important to bring those relationships together.”

The charity also hosts events within the project, including its most recent Granfriends Party, which saw a live singer, face painting, a buffet, cakes and afternoon tea.

“It brings so much joy and happiness to the residents,” Nikki added.

“The children bring so much fun and laughter to the care home environments and it really lifts everybody’s spirits.

“The children and residents learn from each other, and it promotes that mutual respect and understanding whilst sharing memories and experiences.

“We get to listen to their life stories and soak up all of their wisdom.

“It’s just such a lovely sense of fulfilment for all concerned it’s just a beautiful thing.”

For more information, visit mhlec.org/