Legacy
Legacy
Please note: this post is 20 months old and The Cares Family is no longer operational. This post is shared for information only
As 2022 draws to a close, we're are looking back across the year at all the wonderful moments that have blossomed from the friendships created through our one-to-one matching programme. The joy of Love Your Neighbour is that there are countless stories that come our way - from day trips out in the city, to memories and photos shared over cups of tea at home - so it's been a hard task to narrow down. Although there are many more, we've managed to pick out 12 very special moments to help us retrace the last 12 months.
1. Derek and Megan
In January 2022, after many Covid-related delays, Derek (85) and Megan (29) finally got to visit The Postal Museum, where they rode the Mail Rail, explored the interactive activities, and had a coffee and cake in the cafe.
Megan said she'd recommend it to anyone of any age! Since then, the pair have gone on more adventures, from Bermondsey antique market to the Mayfield Lavender Fields.
2. Long-distance friends Dot and Coralie reunite
When Coralie (32) comes over from France to London, we know who she's most excited to see... yes, it's her Love Your Neighbour match, Dot! When she came over in March, the pair had a proper pub lunch at The Half Moon, Herne Hill, where Dot (90) worked many *moons* ago.
3. Our Cares Packages go down a treat
"I think it's too much! That's just wonderful, it's given me a little buzz. I really think it's a wonderful idea." - Mark, 68
In April, the team sent all our matches a little 'Cares' package in the post to thank them for being part of our community. Along with tea and biscuits for matches to share, we also included some fun conversation starter questions. We received lovely feedback from our neighbours like Mark, and Venis (74), who even sent us a thank you card!
4. John paves the way in south London
When we first met John, we didn't realise he was a local hero! John not only founded the Lambeth Dial-a-Ride scheme (with the first journey photographed below!), but started Southwark Carers.
John is now matched with Alex (25) who told us her favourite thing about their friendship so far was "hearing about John's life in the area - he’s lived there for so long and it’s interesting to hear which bits are new and which have been there forever."
5. Domingas and Guy get cultural
Back in June, Domingas (68) and Guy (35) had only been matched up for a month, but they were already finding lots of things they enjoyed doing together - from a drink in the sun to a walk along the Southbank. One particular highlight was their trip to the Tate Modern, where they tested out their art critiquing skills!
"She had a lot of interesting interpretations on the exhibited works. We had great chats." Guy told us. And Domingas seems to be in agreement: “I have had such a lovely time and we have good good talks together. I make him laugh and he’s marvellous.”
6. Percy reveals his flamboyant past
Coming up to Notting Hill Carnival in August, we received this photo from Charlie (25), who's matched with Percy (97), with the accompanying message:
"Percy is a legend! He showed me photos of all his old Notting Hill Carnival costumes and OMG. Photo attached to share the joy!"
7. Jim and Zoe bond over beverages
"As soon as he said a pink G&T was his drink of choice I thought, yep we have no problems here, we're going to get along!"
Jim (91) and Zoe (28) have been hanging out for almost 6 months now and have really enjoyed getting to know one another. Here's a snap from a catch up they had in August, over their favourite drink.
Zoe told us she loves "getting to know all his old stories on how London life used to be growing up with six brothers, about when he was evacuated and finding out his house he grew up in is minutes from where I currently live!"
8. Dave helps Dave face his fears
In September, Dave (38) took match Dave (77) to walk over the Tower Bridge walkway. Little did he know, older neighbour Dave is scared of heights! He was a little nervous as they went over the glass, but he said he was pleased he'd done it in the end.
Older neighbour Dave was initially nervous about joining Love Your Neighbour too, but told us it was "a decision I have never regretted". "We are a good match", he said "Both of us have an excellent sense of humour and our meetings are full of laughter."
9. Addy and Aysha become weaving buddies
When Addy (69) and Aysha (25) were first introduced, we found out their love of creativity made them the perfect match. In October, the arty duo have already scheduled some crafty sessions, with Addy showing Aysha some jewellery she'd made, and teaching her to do some kumihimo braiding!
Aysha loved learning the technique: "Addy is a very good instructor and I really got into the rhythm (though I can’t say my chunk of the bracelet looks as neat as the bit she had already done!)"
10. Theresa and Rachel have their moment in the spotlight
Last month, we released our new South London Cares video, in which match Theresa (78) and Rachel (31) were interviewed, capturing some beautiful insights into what their friendship means to them both. "I love hearing about what Theresa's experienced, and her opinions on how things are being done now," Rachel explained. Theresa clearly appreciates Rachel's company too: "She's understanding, she has empathy, so it makes me happy... It makes you feel young again!"
11. Sandra and Eleanor join the party
Sandra and Eleanor were matched up in the summer, and came along to our South London Cares festive party together earlier this month. Sandra was sporting a festive headband, and Eleanor made some sausage rolls for the occasion (Sandra quietly told us she'd been given an extra batch for herself at home!) The pair had a blast, and Sandra spotted some familiar faces from a local club she attends too.
12. John and Vicki get festive together
John (78) and Vicki (35) rounded off the year with a festive evening out together! Before their meal, they had a drink at The Railway Tavern, which Vicki says took John back down memory lane:
"John’s dad used to drink at the pub over 70 years ago. John fondly remembers spending his pocket money at the sweet shop opposite, and was given an orange juice outside the pub where he happily sat with his sister while his dad enjoyed his Sunday pint!"
While our Love Your Neighbour matchmakers do our best to ensure the younger and older neighbours we bring together will get along, looking at mutual interests and things in common as well as location, we can't take any credit for the magic that happens after that first introduction - that's down to our neighbours. A huge thank you to everyone who's contributed to Love Your Neighbour this year, we can't wait for the friendships 2023 will bring!