Pen Pals Bring Care Homes Together

In these modern times of facebook, Instagram and facetime, many may think the art of letter writing is lost. But some residents at RSL LifeCare’s Peter Cosgrove House (PCH) have revived the tradition. Since November 2018 they have been corresponding with residents at Croft Avenue Residential Home in the Lakes District, England.

Emails have been flowing back and forth with stories of childhood memories, favourite activities and much chat about the weather, especially Sydney’s hot summers and England’s cold winters! PCH residents have heard about Croft Avenue’s resident cat, Cilla, who is so fat from all the treats she’s fed that she can’t fit through the cat flap. They’ve heard about the many visiting animals to the care home including Ilamas, goats, sheep and reptiles and the beautiful views of the Lakeland fells afforded to the residents at the heritage-listed 30-bed care home.

Margaret Wilcox, Activities Organiser at Croft Avenue, recently met the residents at Peter Cosgrove House whilst visiting her daughter who is currently living in Sydney. A slap-up afternoon tea was laid on by Robyn Stevens and Gloria Stewart, Activities Officer and PCH Facility Manager, to welcome Margaret to Peter Cosgrove House and to celebrate the wonderful new connection that has been made.

Peter Cosgrove House Residents who have been writing to Croft Avenue Care Home UK

“The residents of Peter Cosgrove House and Croft Avenue have become sister-homes abroad. It’s been wonderful to share stories of our pastimes and our favourite things, and to be reminded of how, despite being on the other side of the world, the things we hold dear are really very similar” said Margaret in her presentation to the afternoon tea.

“It’s been a great opportunity to meet Margaret in person, to show her around our care home and for her to personally meet the residents who have been corresponding with the residents at Croft Avenue” said Robyn Stevens, Recreation Activities Officer at Peter Cosgrove House.

By Helen Johnston