Developing a bond
Almira's story
Volunteering has opened my eyes and I have become more caring and more understanding of others.
Coronation Road is a residential home that supports six residents with mental health needs. Marion is 87 years old and has lived at Coronation Road for about 15 years. Almira is 17 and began volunteering with Milestones Trust in 2019. Prior to the coronavirus outbreak, she visited Coronation Road on Wednesdays.
Marion loves cakes but she is not able to bake without support. Almira helps her to bake cakes for all of the residents to enjoy as part of their weekly Newspapers, Coffee & Cakes session.
“I enjoy baking with Almira and then reading the news whilst eating cake,” says Marion.
Despite their 70-year age gap and communication challenges stemming from Marion’s hearing impairment, the two women have developed a bond over their shared love of cake!
“It’s a nice celebration of diversity,” says Mark, the Home Manager.
“When we bake, Marion engages well and follows my instructions,” says Almira. “When the cake is done, the residents sit and eat it together, which makes Marion really happy.”
Almira is keen to pursue a career in health and social care. She wants to take a college course and later she hopes to go to university to specialise in mental health.
“I enjoy volunteering a lot,” she says. “I feel more at home by helping out in the community where I live in Southville. Volunteering has opened my eyes and I have become more caring and more understanding of others.”