Residents at Laurel Gardens in Mancetter, Atherstone, are receiving invaluable support from Open Hands Community, a local community group dedicated to helping people in Atherstone and its surrounding areas.

Since January, volunteers from Open Hands Community join the coffee morning at the Retirement Living scheme operated by Housing 21 to offer one-on-one support with forms and applications, including Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) , Personal Independence payments (PIP) and Blue Badge paperwork, as well as guidance on benefits and grants. However, their impact extends far beyond practical help – they bring warmth, companionship, and a listening ear to residents who might otherwise feel alone.

For Brian and Margaret, two residents at Laurel Gardens, knowing that support from Open Hands Community is available is an additional comfort, they said: “It was such a relief to have someone help us contact the council about an issue. It’s comforting to know that there are people in the local area who are willing to help when we need them.”

The partnership has been warmly welcomed by Amanda Nestoruk, Housing and Care Manager at Laurel Gardens. She said: “It’s fantastic to see how Open Hands Community is making a real difference to our residents and the wider community. Having this kind of support available on-site means residents feel more confident in navigating complex paperwork and accessing the services they need.

“Laurel Gardens has always been more than just a place to live – it’s a welcoming community, and we are proud to be a hub where people can find support and companionship.

“The work Gracie and Sarah are doing is invaluable. Many residents can feel overwhelmed by forms and official letters, and having friendly, knowledgeable volunteers to help takes away a lot of stress. More than that, Open Hands Community is helping to strengthen the bonds within Laurel Gardens, ensuring no one feels alone.”

The collaboration between Laurel Gardens and Open Hands Community is a shining example of how local initiatives can transform lives creating a supportive environment where older people can feel safe and supported.

Founded in July 2024 by Gracie Ford and Sarah King, Open Hands Community was created to make life easier for those in need of assistance. Sarah, manager at Open Hands Community, shared her thoughts on the partnership: “We are incredibly grateful to Laurel Gardens for welcoming us into their coffee mornings every couple of weeks. It is a pleasure to connect with the residents, offering support and companionship to those who may feel isolated or lonely. At Open Hands, we believe that even a friendly chat can make a difference, and we are thankful for the opportunity to be part of such a warm and welcoming community.”

For more information about Laurel Gardens, visit our property page. To learn more about Open Hands Community, visit www.openhandscommunity-cic.co.uk