Young volunteers from the National Citizenship Service (NCS) raised over £400 to give Mundy House care home in Basildon a colourful and creative garden makeover.

As part of the refurbishment, new plants were planted; garden furniture, decking and fences were painted; and a stunning piece of wall art featuring a London bus and iconic red phone box were created.

Whilst volunteering at the home, NCS scheme student volunteers befriended the residents of Mundy House Care Home, in Church Road, and involved everyone with makeover activities.

Josi George, Home Manager at Mundy House, said: “The benefits of interaction across the generations is widely reported, and they were certainly evident during the NCS visits.
“While here, the students not only befriended the residents, getting them involved in activities, but we were also treated to a good old singalong!”

NCS brings together young people from different backgrounds for a unique shared experience. It is open to 16- and 17-year-olds for two or four weeks over the summer holidays. As part of the programme, participants take part in a community-based social action project.

This is the second time that NCS teams have visited Mundy House. On a summer afternoon in August 2018, NCS volunteers entertained everyone with karaoke, nail painting, providing tea and homemade cakes, playing word games, bingo and dancing with the residents.

Josi said: “We are so pleased that the NCS teams have again chosen to help Mundy House, and all of our residents and staff will miss them greatly.”

Darren Goodman, NCS2019 team leader, said: “Our team painted the garden furniture and decking area and we’d like to thank the staff and residents for the warm welcome we received. We’re very grateful, your hospitality was exceptional.”

Mundy House forms part of Larchwood Care and is managed by Healthcare Management Solutions.

www.larchwoodcare.co.uk/mundy-house