The Chuckle Linked Up Project is a project supported by the National Lottery Awards for All Fund, and Staffordshire County Council Community Fund (supported by Councillor Ian Tagg). The Chuckle team and volunteers with additional needs, went to three different residential homes and delivered sessions with the residents. This project has enriched the lives of care home residents, their support staff, the Chuckle team, and the wider care home community.
Through engaging activities, meaningful interactions, and creative sessions, this project has brought joy, improved well-being, and fostered connections within the community.
The Chuckle Linked Up project has been delivered to over 60 residents on a weekly basis, within three residential homes for 38 weeks.
Resident Engagement and Social Development
One of the most remarkable aspects of the project has been the transformation observed in the residents. Many have emerged as individuals, greeting the team with enthusiasm and warmth. Expressions such as “Oh good, it’s Chuckle time!” and “Good to see you” have become commonplace, demonstrating the residents’ anticipation and appreciation. These moments of interaction, smiles, and laughter have rekindled social engagement and communication skills, even among those who had been less expressive before.
Views from Residential staff home.
“The visits are so well received and put smiles on residents faces”
“Chuckle members are so friendly and so happy to chat and engage. They remember resident’s names from week to week, always giving positive vibes”
“Residents seem very comfortable with the Chuckle team visits and show interest in the activities”
“The activities are different each week and engage the residents”
“We all look forward to the visits from Chuckle as we have built up such a connection and relationship, they are part of the family”
“It is lovely to see the residents getting involved and a large amount of residents attending the weekly sessions”
“Chuckles brings smiles to everyone’s faces and it is lovely to see the sessions having a positive impact on the residents and the Chuckle team members”
Impact on Physical Well-being
The physical benefits of the activities provided have been substantial. Residents have shown significant improvements in their range of motion, particularly in their arms, feet, and fine motor skills. The carefully designed activities have encouraged movement, coordination, and participation, leading to noticeable progress in physical capabilities. The sensory equipment we brought with the Councillor Tagg’s funding helped this to happen.
Activities and Community Integration
The Chuckle team has delivered a variety of engaging sessions, including movement, sensory, crafts, and games. Even simple social activities, such as looking at pictures and having conversations, have fostered connections and stimulated cognitive engagement. A notable success was the collaboration with a care home on their Chinese New Year theme, demonstrating the project’s adaptability and its role in strengthening community ties.
Team Growth and Collaboration
The dedication and enthusiasm of the Chuckle team have been instrumental in the success of this project. The team’s positive energy has brightened residents’ lives while also fostering personal growth among the facilitators. Observing team members gain confidence and transfer skills learned in Chuckle House has been incredibly rewarding.
As the Chuckle Linked Up Project comes to a close, it is clear that it has left a lasting impact on all involved. The privilege of leading this initiative has been both humbling and fulfilling, knowing that it has made a tangible difference in the residents’ lives. The gratitude expressed by residents and their families underscores the profound effect of this work.
This project has exemplified the power of connection, creativity, and compassion, proving that small moments of joy and engagement can lead to significant improvements in quality of life. The hope remains that the relationships and community links established through this initiative will continue to thrive long after the project concludes, and that we will be able to find further funding to continue this valuable work in the future.
Please contact Sharon Hodson project lead for further information on [email protected]
