Eve Belle Care Home, part of the Sanders Senior Living Group, in Wickford, Essex is delighted to announce that it has been named a finalist for the Intergenerational Project Awards 2027 by NAPA, the National Activity Providers Association, recognising the Home’s ongoing commitment to bringing generations together and creating meaningful opportunities for young people.

The finalist recognition celebrates Eve Belle’s consistent work with North Crescent Primary School, supporting children up to Year 6, and Castledon, supporting young adults with disabilities.

The partnerships go far beyond occasional visits. Eve Belle provides young people with the opportunity to experience a real working environment, helping them develop confidence, communication skills and an understanding of the world of work.

Even while Eve Belle was still being built, North Crescent School was already becoming part of the story. The children and teachers played a special role in helping to name the lounges and dining rooms, creating a lasting connection with the home from the very beginning.

As part of their time at Eve Belle, young people spend time with residents, sharing conversations and experiences, while also getting involved in preparing and serving homemade scones and hot drinks. These simple but meaningful interactions create opportunities for residents and young people to learn from one another, build relationships, and enjoy each other’s company.

Residents also look forward to welcoming the young readers from North Crescent School, who visit every Monday to read with them. These sessions are greatly valued by residents, who take immense pride in watching the children develop their confidence, progress in their reading skills, and grow over time.

The project reflects Eve Belle’s belief that intergenerational connections can have a positive impact on everyone involved — giving younger people valuable life experiences, while bringing energy, new perspectives and meaningful connections into the lives of residents.

“We are absolutely thrilled to be named finalists,” said Arrianne Concepcion, Registered Home Manager. “What started as opportunities for young people to spend time with our residents has grown into something really special. We’re proud to give young people a genuine taste of working life, help build their confidence and, most importantly, create opportunities for different generations to connect and enjoy time together.

“We are incredibly proud of the intergenerational relationships being built at Eve Belle. We are inspired by our CEO, Gordon Sanders, whose work over the years has championed engagement, connection, and community. We hope this recognition will also help raise the profile of Eve Belle and our wider organisation, Sanders Senior Living, and shine a light on the positive things happening within our community.”

The Intergenerational Project Awards 2027 finalist recognition is a wonderful acknowledgement of the commitment of Eve Belle’s residents, staff, schools and community partners who continue to make these intergenerational experiences possible.