The residents of Cavell House care home, in Shoreham-by-Sea have been knitting and collecting warm clothing for homeless people in Worthing. The keen knitters are channelling their inner creativity into producing a range of garments in their weekly knitting sessions.
Other warm items of clothing are also being collected from Cavell House staff and visitors, and the first batch has already been delivered to Storm Ministries in Worthing. Storm Ministries is part of a group of local churches and organisations that run a night shelter for the homeless during the winter months. The night shelter, which opened on 16 November, provides a service to those in need throughout the cold season.
Manager of Cavell House, Nikki Stevenson, said: “The residents’ enthusiasm towards knitting clothing for the homeless has been incredible. Not only has it put their fantastic knitted garments to good use, but the activity encourages residents to interact and improves cognitive function.
“It is wonderful to see the residents engage in a task which gives them purpose, together with connecting them with the community.”
Resident, Jill, who donated coats, said: “Having just moved into Cavell House I had to get rid of some clothes, including outdoor wear and wanted to share and ensure they were going to be used. I have previously supported similar projects so was very happy to donate my coats to the homeless.”
Cavell House forms part of Larchwood Care and is managed by Healthcare Management Solutions. 83% of Larchwood Care Homes are rated as ‘Good’ or above by the CQC, above the industry average.