We are incredibly proud of our association with the ColchesterUp Project. The confidence it has bought out in the children has been remarkable. They are always so excited to go on their weekly visits to the care home and often ask if they're going on days they're not scheduled to go. The children are learning so much from working, communicating and playing with the residents in their sessions. We have noticed how respectful and calm they are, and also responding better to verbal instruction better than before. The children have a wonderful relationship with Margaret, the care homes activities co-ordinator and they always feel so welcomed when they arrive.

The project has also helped our businesses enormously, with people all around the country asking us about our involvement in the project, and how they can go about creating something similar in their local areas.

Ultimately though, the wonderful relationships continue to grow between the little ones and the residents themselves. We have noticed a real change in the residents since our first visit back in October 2018, and we're all really excited about what happens in the future, both with this group of toddlers and residents, and the next.

Nikola Hay and Hayley Bellamy, Bambinos and Little Beginnings Childminding