Pen Friends Initiative with Local School

At Rubislaw Park Care Home, we know how important it is for our residents to stay connected with the wider community. That’s why we’re delighted to share the success of our recent Pen Friends initiative, a fun collaboration with a local Aberdeen primary school that’s building bridges between generations.

Through this programme, our residents have been paired with young pupils as pen friends, rekindling the traditional art of letter writing. For many of our residents, putting pen to paper has been a meaningful experience, offering them the chance to share their memories and reflect on the changes they’ve witnessed in their lifetimes. In return, the children bring curiosity, fresh perspectives, and a keen interest in hearing stories from the past.

With support from our dedicated Rubislaw Park team and the primary school’s teaching staff, this initiative has allowed residents to act as mentors, helping the children discover the joys of communication beyond screens and devices. In a world that often relies on instant messaging, our residents know the unique pleasure of receiving a handwritten letter – a joy they’re now passing on to a new generation.

The excitement is felt on both sides. Our residents eagerly anticipate each new letter, looking forward to hearing about school life and the dreams of their young pen pals. Likewise, the children are fascinated by stories of the past, and adventures they had in their schooldays, shared by their older friends. This initiative is a wonderful reminder of the interests that unite us all, regardless of age.

The Pen Friends programme has brought immense joy and stimulation to our residents while giving the children a unique opportunity to connect with and learn from an older generation. Here at Rubislaw Park, we’re proud to see such a positive impact on both groups, fostering lasting connections and a true sense of community in Aberdeen.

If you’d like to see what life at Rubislaw Park is all about, we invite you to book a tour. Come and experience our warm, welcoming community for yourself, and discover why Rubislaw Park feels like home.