Bear hugs for residents at Scarbrough Court

Residents at Scarbrough Court in Cramlington, Northumberland, have been gifted with a dozen soft, cuddly teddies to help provide comfort and relieve stress.

The teddies, which were donated by the Freemasons of Northumberland and Cumbria, were presented as part of Teddies for Loving Care (TLC), a scheme set up by Freemason in 2001, initially to support young children who spend time in A&E departments in hospitals.

Local Freemasons extended the TLC initiative extended to provide a similar comfort for care home residents living with dementia. The residents were delighted to each receive a comfort bear of their very own.

Alasdair Watson (APGM Northumberland), John Thompson (PGM Durham), Bill Morley (Deputy PGM Cumberland & Westmorland) from The Freemasons of Northumberland and Cumbria donate TLC teddies to residents at Scarbrough Court.

According to Dementia UK, soft toy animals can provide great benefits for people living with dementia, particularly in the later stages. They can promote feelings of relaxation and pleasure. Holding a soft toy animal can be helpful for people who may become withdrawn, restless, distressed or anxious, improving their wellbeing and ability to communicate.

Stacey Louise, one of Scarbrough Court’s Activities Coordinators, said:

Our residents were thrilled to receive such a kind and thoughtful gift, bringing joy and happiness to everyone.

[Summary: Residents at Scarbrough Court in Cramlington, Northumberland, have been gifted with a dozen soft, cuddly teddies to help provide comfort and relieve stress. They were donated by the Freemasons of Northumberland and Cumbria, as part of Teddies for Loving Care (TLC)]