Henfield care home praises Postcards of Kindness scheme

The Postcards of Kindness initiative launched in 2018 asking people to write and send postcards to residents of care homes.

But Red Oaks care home in Henfield said the ‘small gestures’ spreads happiness and stimulates conversations among the residents who receive them.

A spokesman added: “We love this caring and positive idea, which has evolved into a national crusade making connections, sharing stories and forming friendships.

“We want to combat loneliness and isolation and Postcards of Kindness remind our residents that there’s always somebody thinking of them.

“We have discovered that holiday postcards sent to Red Oaks’ residents have been a great way to make the residents’ day, enthusing residents’ memories which triggers lively conversations.”

Regular letters are submitted from Hurstpierpoint College and cards from a broad-spectrum of people of all ages, including Zak who is only aged 4, he added.

Activities manager Marilyn Knight said: “Residents really enjoy replying to postcards of Kindness if the sender adds their address.”

General manager Linda Ryan added: “Holiday memories brighten someone’s day.”

Residents at Red Oaks with more advanced dementia enjoy the tactile aspect of cards, the spokesman said.

He added: “Post cards of Kindness reminds our residents at Red Oaks that there’s always somebody thinking of them.

“If you would like to join in you can join Postcards of Kindness via their Facebook group.”