How the PenPal Scheme began
Lockdown, in 2020, meant that our wonderful volunteers who visit older people in their homes had to stop. But we wanted to ensure that we could reduce the isolation as far as possible for our clients. So, we encouraged the volunteers and the wider general public to write to them, rather than visit. Being a PenPal took off in such a way that it is now its own scheme and we have volunteers who are solely part of the PenPal Scheme.
Who can be a PenPal?
Anyone can join our PenPal Scheme, whether they are eight or eighty.
Children can send in drawings, paintings, and write letters; adults can write letters or send postcards.
As many of our older people have health conditions that affect their vision and dexterity, we can’t guarantee a reply but know that your kindness will make their day and bring a smile to their faces.
Don’t know what to write about?
You don’t have to have an exciting lifestyle, just write to them like you would a member of your family or a close friend and let them feel part of your life. If you do go away on holiday or with work, why not send them a postcard or photo of where you are. If you have half an hour to write a letter every couple of weeks or so, you’d be perfect.
There may be a possibility to have a traditional penpal friendship with an older person, please attach a note to your letter if you are interested.
Here are some points to remember:
- Don’t include any sensitive information on the item except your name.
- If you’d like a reply, pop your name and address into the envelope on a separate piece of paper.
- SCCCC sends letters, drawings, and postcards to service users via the Royal Mail.
- We enclose an SAE with our office address and an individual code, which relates to the kind person who sent a letter, drawing or postcard.
- This method allows us to pass correspondence forward and back whilst protecting everyone’s personal data.
- This method allows us to pass correspondence forward and back whilst protecting everyone’s personal data.
- If you would rather draw or paint a picture, remember to use bright and contrasting colours, think felt tip pens and/or tactile materials, so those who are partially sighted can enjoy them.
How to join the PenPal Scheme
If you would like to become a PenPal, we would love to hear from you. Please email Ben Webster, our PenPal Scheme Coordinator on ben@scccc.co.uk for an initial chat.
Or send your drawings and letters to: SCCCC Unit 19, President Buildings, Savile Street East, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England, S4 7UQ
Accessing the Scheme
Referrals to the scheme can be from healthcare professionals, family, or friends, or you can refer yourself. Simply call 0114 2505290 (Option 2), or email mail@scccc.co.uk
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