07.07.2025

YOPEY Befrienders Recognised for Connecting Generations at Ferrars Hall

Ferrars Hall Care Home in Huntingdon recently hosted a heartwarming celebration to recognise two exceptional young volunteers who have been making a meaningful difference to residents’ lives.

Ben Gilbert and Edward Hampson, both 17 and sixth form students at Hinchingbrooke School, have been regularly visiting residents at Ferrars Hall as part of the YOPEY Befriender scheme. Run by the East Anglian charity YOPEY, the initiative trains young people to volunteer their time and companionship to older people living in care homes.

The students were surprised during one of their regular visits when they were welcomed not only by familiar staff and residents but also by a special guest — the High Sheriff of Cambridgeshire, the Right Honourable Frances Stanley. Joining her was YOPEY founder Tony Gearing MBE, who has led this intergenerational initiative for over a decade.

To mark the occasion, the Ferrars Hall team hosted a celebratory afternoon tea for residents, staff, and guests. During the event, the High Sheriff presented Ben and Edward with High Sheriff Awards, honouring their outstanding commitment to building relationships across generations and helping tackle loneliness among older people.

“The room lit up when the YOPEY Befrienders arrived,” said the High Sheriff. “It was a real pleasure to present these awards to Ben and Edward. Their warmth, kindness and compassion shone through — they are a credit to their school and community. The staff at Ferrars Hall were also inspiring — their dedication to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment was clear to see.”

YOPEY founder Tony Gearing MBE praised the pair, saying: “Edward and Ben are wonderful examples of young people choosing to give back to their community. By forming friendships with residents, they help bridge the gap between generations in such a genuine and impactful way.”

The students have formed strong bonds with many residents during their visits. Resident Jean Ricketts shared over tea and cake, “It’s lovely meeting the young people. Thank you for coming to speak to me.”

Pat Edwards, a recently retired member of the wellbeing team who spent seven years at Ferrars Hall and nearly 50 years in care, reflected on the impact of the visits: “The young people brighten up everyone’s day. They connect the home with the outside world and interact beautifully with residents of all ages."

Ben, who is currently studying maths, further maths, physics and history, said: “We really enjoy visiting. It’s great hearing the residents’ stories and sharing time together.”

Edward, who is taking English literature, geography and politics, added: “Everyone has such interesting stories to tell. Even when they wander a little, you can still connect with them, and it’s always meaningful.”

Home Manager Susan Dunnell expressed her pride in the initiative: “The students form genuine, warm connections with our residents, many of whom are living with dementia. Their visits bring so much joy and often spark laughter and conversation. It’s a chance for our residents to feel part of the wider community — and a wonderful learning opportunity for the students too. We hope this experience will inspire some of them to consider careers in care in the future.”

At Ferrars Hall, building community and nurturing intergenerational relationships are a vital part of daily life. This special event not only celebrated two outstanding young people but also the power of connection and kindness across all ages.

To find out more:

For more information about life at Ferrars Hall Care Home, please contact Hannah Mills on 01480 456 359 or email careenquiries@countrycourtcare.com.

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