Young artists bring cheer to our elderly in Borders care homes

Youngsters using art to bridge the generation gap are being credited with brightening up the lives of care home residents across the Borders.
Zac Foggin, 6, from Earlston with his artwork.Zac Foggin, 6, from Earlston with his artwork.
Zac Foggin, 6, from Earlston with his artwork.

Galashiels-based charity Volunteer Centre Borders has been asking children and their families to create colourful artwork for it to share with 17 of the region’s care homes.

Project leader Stephanie Logan said the project is proving popular so far.

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“The whole idea is that we are still connecting together despite all being isolated,” she said.

Buccleuch Care Centre residents, from left, Ella Clarkson, Sadie Brodie, Irene Mcleod and Patsy O Connoll.Buccleuch Care Centre residents, from left, Ella Clarkson, Sadie Brodie, Irene Mcleod and Patsy O Connoll.
Buccleuch Care Centre residents, from left, Ella Clarkson, Sadie Brodie, Irene Mcleod and Patsy O Connoll.

“Art is such a wonderful tool to support this.

“By encouraging families to take part by creating a poster, card, letter or postcard that will help brighten another’s day, we’re encouraging children and young people to help others in the comfort of their own homes while being creative and learning with their parents and siblings.

“This would also be great for high school students who are good at graphics on their computer and may want to get involved.

“We ask that all art sent direct to care homes has ‘VCB’s creative happiness project’ written on the back so that the care home knows the artwork can be passed onto any elderly resident that may need it.”

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To take part, there’s a list of participating care home’s addresses on the charity’s Facebook page, or you can email a copy of your artwork direct to s.logan@vcborders.org.uk

Equally, if you know of anyone isolating in their own home who would benefit from a bit of artwork through the post, please let Stephanie know by emailing s.logan@vcborders.org.uk