I take my dog in. They love seeing my dog.
Listen 00:13:23
Story: Jean Howard - Harefield, London Borough of Hillingdon
The Friends of Cedar House held their first meeting on 2nd July 2015. It came together as a response from Harefield to support its elders living in Cedar House. It was supported in its ambitions by Attend Academy. Other supporting organisations were Harefield Baptist Church, and the Harefield Academy.
In August 2016, the Friends of Cedar House were thrilled to receive funding from Awards for All to set up a trolley service. The trolley includes squash, sweets, and small gifts. The trolley, largely run by volunteers provides a talking point for residents and something to look forward to, and provides an opportunity to exercise choice. It’s an important foundational activity for the community to get involved in, and has been described as a garden gate, something to lean on and chat over. One of the most important roles of the home has been involvement with young people, either individually or in groups. In July 2017, the first visit by the National Citizenship Service took place, and this began a long relationship over many years.
Skanska were the first local corporate to send their staff to volunteer alongside the Friends of Cedar House in September. The Skanska staff split into teams, and focussed on projects both inside and outside the home. Alongside this, they had time to sit and chat with residents.
In 2021, the Friends of Cedar House were delighted to receive funding of £5313 from the Fassnidge Memorial Trust. The funds supported so many initiatives across a period of 12 months for the residents. The money received also funded the purchase of a summerhouse. The idea was to provide residents who weren’t confident enough to leave Cedar House the option to go out.
In August 2022 with the relaxation of Covid regulations, the Friends partnered with Harefield Baptist Church to set up a regular coffee morning. New volunteers from the local community have come into the home, and delighted residents by taking them for tea, coffee, cake, and a chat.