Fenchurch House Care Home, located in Spalding and part of the Country Court family, recently hosted a heartwarming afternoon tea to celebrate a young volunteer who has made a meaningful difference to residents’ lives.
18-year-old Matthew Simons, a student at Spalding Grammar School, was honoured for his dedication to supporting older people through the YOPEY Befrienders scheme – an initiative run by the East Anglian charity YOPEY (Young People of the Year). The programme trains young people to visit care homes, offering their time, companionship, and conversation to residents.
Matthew has given over 52 hours of his time, regularly visiting both Fenchurch House and neighbouring St John’s Care Home in Spalding. His commitment was formally recognised by the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, David Chambers, who presented him with a prestigious High Sheriff Award. Matthew was also presented with a special certificate by YOPEY founder Tony Gearing MBE, who described him as “a great friend to the elderly.”
The celebration was attended by residents, staff, school representatives, and special guests, including Dr Adriana Leadbeater, Sixth Form Director at Spalding Grammar School, and her deputy, Alex Dearing. Dr Leadbeater praised the scheme, saying: “Being a YOPEY Befriender is a great way for students to give back, gain perspective beyond the teenage bubble, and learn to appreciate and respect older generations.”
The Spalding Grammar School students involved in the programme have clocked up over 200 visits, giving nearly 300 hours of their time to local care homes.
Matthew, who hopes to study conservation biology at Leeds University, reflected on the experience: “I learned a lot about how people cope in old age and how important it is to make the most of life and stay positive, whatever challenges they may face.”
Tony Gearing MBE, founder of YOPEY, added: “Matthew was a great friend to the elderly. When young people persevere with care home visits like he did, they become a source of real comfort to residents. We’re also grateful to the supportive staff at Country Court care homes, which create a welcoming environment for young volunteers.”
Fenchurch House Home Manager, Ganiyu Lawal, said: “Being part of the YOPEY programme has been an uplifting experience for everyone at Fenchurch House. Matthew brought joy and genuine companionship to our residents, and it’s been a pleasure to watch those connections grow. We wish him all the best in the future.”
For more information about life at Fenchurch House Care Home, please contact Hannah Mills on 01775 711 959 or email careenquiries@countrycourtcare.com.
