Bridges between ages

On a Thursday afternoon at Dorothea Court, the quiet corridors and sunlit lounges are transformed into spaces of laughter, music, and playful competition. The residents settle into their favourite chairs, ready for a weekly ritual that has become a highlight of life at the home: visits from sixth form students from nearby Bedford Modern School. For nearly eight years, these intergenerational meetings have nurtured friendships, sparked conversations, and created a vibrant web of connection across the generations.

The relationship between Dorothea Court and Bedford Modern School began almost by chance. “One day, the school called and said, ‘We’ve got some students who would be interested in spending time with the residents,’” explains Ruth Broomhall, Housing Scheme Manager. “These visits were already an established thing when I started here, and it has just continued ever since. Over the years, different students have come to visit us, but the joy and energy they bring never changes.

Every Thursday from 1.30pm to 3pm during term time, the students come to spend time with the residents in the lounge. Some dive into Scrabble or Uno, others invent their own games, while a few enjoy listening to music or simply chatting. “Sometimes we split into teams, one student and one resident, and play against each other,” says Pat, 84. “It’s friendly but competitive, and it’s always fun.”

For the residents, the visits are more than entertainment – they are a bridge to the world beyond Dorothea Court. Audrey, 92, reflects, “I’ve got grandchildren and great grandchildren, but it’s lovely to meet these young people from Bedford Modern School. I enjoy learning about their ambitions and sharing a bit of my life with them. They bring happiness and energy.”

Doris, 95, agrees. “We’ve always had students. They bring new games, ideas, and perspectives. It keeps us connected to the modern world, and that’s very valuable.”

Those living with us also appreciate the mutual exchange of knowledge. Eric, 89, says, “They learn from us, and we learn from them. They ask questions about life in the past, and we get to hear about their world today. It’s enriching for both sides.”

The school also sees huge value in the partnership. The supervising teacher, Jo Williams, explains, “Bedford Modern School has had the privilege of placing Sixth Form students with Dorothea Court for several years through the community service initiative. Students and residents benefit from the weekly visits, chatting, sharing stories, playing music and playing board games. These interactions are enriching and invaluable for all concerned.”

The visits also help to build friendships between the students themselves. Florence says, “I hadn’t spoken much to some classmates before, but sharing this experience has brought us closer. We talk on the way here and in school. It’s a shared journey that unites us.”

Dorothea Court’s commitment to intergenerational connection reflects the wider ethos of Pilgrims’ Friend Society. Dorothea Court is more than a housing scheme, it’s a community hub, a place where older residents are actively engaged with the world around them. Weekly visits like this show how older and younger generations can thrive together, learning from each other and building empathy, resilience, and joy.

Ruth Broomhall reflects on the enduring nature of the scheme: “We’ve had students coming for nearly eight years, and each one has been brilliant. Seeing the friendships that develop and continue beyond a single visit is proof of the power of these relationships.”

Ernest sums it up: “I would encourage other students to get involved. Older people have so much wisdom. When you really listen, you learn things that stay with you for life. These friendships are invaluable.