Silvanna Court Care Home, part of Runwood Homes Group, has strengthened its intergenerational partnership with Abacus Primary School through a touching new initiative; a fortnightly visit to the school’s Sign Language Club.
Silvanna Court resident Reg, who has been deaf since birth, was invited to join the children in their weekly sessions. Reg now visits the club fortnightly to support and connect with pupils who are learning British Sign Language.
The initiative was born from a conversation between Headteacher Heidi and Leah, Lifestyle Coordinator at Silvanna Court during one of their Dementia Champion planning meetings. With the Sign Language Club happening just across the corridor, the idea to involve Reg came naturally.
During the most recent session, Reg asked the children questions and responded entirely in sign language. The children, eager and proud to showcase their skills, engaged warmly with Reg which was very moving for everyone.
Leah shared:
“There were a few tears. It was so emotional to see the children excited to communicate with Reg. They made him feel included, valued, and proud.”
Reg added:
“I’m so happy the children are learning sign language. It’s made me feel very included and happy.”
A standout moment came when both Reg and the children signed “bunny rabbit”, sparking joyful giggles throughout the room.
This collaboration not only supports the school’s commitment to inclusivity but also offers a unique way to bridge the generational gap and promote understanding of life with hearing loss. The program continues to run alongside the ongoing intergenerational Dementia Champion partnership between the home and the school.
