Weston-Super-Mare carpentry students donate custom-made bench to Salvation Army care home
published on 14 Mar 2025
A heart-warming gesture from Weston College’s carpentry students has brought smiles to the residents of Dewdown House Care Home, run by The Salvation Army. As part of their ‘Benches and Biscuits Initiative’, the students crafted and donated a beautiful, custom-made bench to the care home, complete with cosy cushions and a box of shortbread.
The initiative, which sees carpentry students create special items for local care homes, is already making a difference. Clare Timbrell, Activities Leader for Older People’s Services at Dewdown House, shared her delight: “We were thrilled to be one of the first care homes to receive a bench. It’s longer than our other benches, so four residents can sit together comfortably. The cushions are a lovely touch too – the residents absolutely adore them!”
The bench was presented by three teachers and six students from Weston College’s Engineering and Construction Academy. The visit was more than just a handover; it was an opportunity for intergenerational connection. Over refreshments, students and residents chatted about everything from the care home’s garden to stories of Weston’s past, including tales of when The Beatles visited the town.
Clare said, "The students were fascinated by the residents’ stories, and the residents were equally amused to learn that young people today prefer energy drinks like ‘Monster’ over tea or coffee!”
Dewdown House, known for its vibrant community and stunning views of the seafront and Clarence Park, is a hub of activity for its residents. From feeding squirrels in the park to enjoying weekly entertainment, the care home prides itself on creating a lively and engaging environment. The new bench will play a key role in enhancing outdoor experiences for residents, particularly as the gardening club prepares to restart for the spring.
Clare said, “Having extra seating means more residents can enjoy our patio space and take part in activities like the gardening club."
“For some residents, getting outside is a challenge, so having a beautiful garden space to enjoy is incredibly important. It’s not just about the flowers – it’s about the emotional and social benefits too. Residents love sharing stories about their own gardens and watching the flowers bloom gives everyone a sense of new life and hope as spring arrives.”
The ‘Benches and Biscuits Initiative’ is a trial project, with only six benches made so far. Dewdown House is one of the lucky first recipients, and the care home is already considering special requests for other items the students could create in the future.
Clare said, “This partnership with Weston College is wonderful. It’s not just about the bench – it’s about bringing generations together and creating something meaningful for our residents. We’re so grateful to the students and teachers for their hard work and thoughtfulness.”
Dewdown House is a forty-bed home that offers long term accommodation and respite for the elderly, located on the seafront in Weston-super-Mare. For more information about Dewdown House Care Home visit https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/older-people/care-homes/dewdown-house.