New friendships have blossomed at Swanton’s Supported Living North East services thanks to the tradition of pen pal letters.
Sarah Jane, who is supported at Deneside, has struck up a lovely connection with her pen pal from another Swanton service.
The Deneside team helped Sarah Jane exchange the special letters, and she’s kept her pen pal’s replies in a special box.
Scheme Manager Linda Raine said Sarah Jane even had the chance to meet her pen pal at a party at Rowanwood Gardens and is hoping to arrange another get-together soon.
Linda said: “It’s lovely to see how much joy Sarah Jane gets from having a pen pal.
“Everybody loves getting handwritten letters through the post from friends – they feel more special than texts and emails.
“The pen pal scheme is a hit with many people we support. It’s always fantastic when we can bring the pen pals together for an in-person meeting too.”
Robert, who is supported at Ridgeway, has also been busy writing to pen pals.
He’s enjoyed corresponding with several people supported at other Swanton services and went to the Rowanwood Gardens event as well.
It’s been a very positive time for Robert, who has progressed brilliantly with his personal care and has been taking great pride in his appearance.
He was thrilled to attend the Rowanwood party as he met one of his pen pals.
Linda added: “Robert loves a party, and the chance to meet his pen pal was the icing on the cake.
“He enjoyed spending time with them and hitting the dance floor for a boogie.
“We are thrilled to see Robert doing so well.”
