Residents at a local care home are proving that a ball of wool and a good chat can go a long way by knitting cosy blankets for dogs at the animal shelter.
The initiative grew out of a simple idea, after a small number of residents at Lakeside Care Home expressed an interest in starting a knitting group.
What began as a casual pastime soon developed into a regular weekly gathering, attracting more residents and sparking discussions about how their work could help others.
Wendy Warder, who organises the sessions, explained: “Once the group got bigger, they wanted a target – something meaningful to work towards.”
After a discussion, the group decided to knit blankets for the animals at the JSPCA.
The project was quickly brought to life thanks to the generosity of residents, family members and friends, who donated wool to support the cause.
The steady stream of donations helped inspire the group to keep knitting, with every contribution described as “greatly received”.
The ‘Knit & Natter’ sessions have now been running for just under a year and take place once a week.
While the group meets formally for a chat and a cup of tea, many residents also take their knitting back to their rooms to work out throughout the week.
Ms Warder said that participants look forward to the sessions not only for the knitting, but for the social connection they bring.
The group averages around eight completed blankets every three months.
The size and number of squares vary, but each finished piece is sent off to help keep rescue dogs warm and comfortable.
The project’s impact has already extended beyond the JSPCA with the group supplying blankets to Jersey Rescue Dogs, who sent back a “lovely thank-you card” in appreciation.