A group of sea cadets have been making waves at a retirement living scheme in Stafford where they’ve helped residents bring a communal garden back to life.
Members of the Stafford and Rugeley Sea Cadets have been visiting the scheme, which is managed by Care Plus, a Housing Plus Group company, for the last three months and helped create an outdoor space for everyone to enjoy.
Thanks to everyone’s hard work, resident Margaret could get busy filling the garden with flowers and afterwards said: “The garden was quite overgrown and the sea cadets helped to clear it all away, they ended up with piles of twigs and weeds.
“They worked really hard, and they were all so pleasant and lovely. Young people get such bad press, but to see these youngsters working hard has been a joy.”
The Sea Cadets began volunteering after Margaret and Care Plus Retirement Living Officer (RLO), Zoe, were offered their help at the local church.
Each month a group of around eight cadets visit the scheme to help with the garden.
Commanding Officer of Stafford and Rugeley Sea Cadets, Charlotte Folland, said: “Alongside our training activities our cadets, who are between the ages of 12 and 18, undertake various tasks in the local area to help the community as well as help with their personal development. These types of interactions help to strengthen links within our community.”
RLO Zoe thanked the cadets for their help. She added: “We’re delighted that the Sea Cadets have given up their time to help our residents with the garden here.
“They did an excellent job pulling out weeds and tidying up flower beds. You could really see the difference afterwards and their efforts have really enhanced the garden.
“We want to thank them for all their hard work.”
Care Plus are looking for more volunteers to help make a positive difference to their communities throughout Staffordshire and Shropshire.
All you need is enthusiasm and a desire to help. You can choose how much time you offer, and Care Plus will provide the training and support.
If you would like to be their next volunteer, please get in touch by emailing Engagement&Volunteering@care-plus.org.uk.
Caption for picture:
The Sea Cadets with resident Margaret
