For the last two years Ruth Jones, Activities Co-ordinator at the Coventry retirement scheme, has been linked with the University, bringing students and residents together, socialising and sharing their stories and life experiences.

About 25 students visit each fortnight on a Sunday to befriend residents and organise activities both inside and out. A recent project the students undertook was tidying up the garden. They also help to organise table top activities for the residents.

"It is very much a two-way learning curve, where residents learn about student life, and in return the students learn of resident's life experiences," said Ruth.

The students arranged a Christmas party for the residents and made cakes and even gave them a small gift each.

New intakes at the University are encouraged to become involved, and their visits to Willowbrook will continue in the New Year.

See more Christmas at ExtraCare pictures on Flickr!

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For further information, please contact:

Lucy Henson, PR officer
0789 105 3062
lucy.henson@extracare.org.uk