A MALPAS care and nursing home, is championing literacy skills among schoolchildren by launching a ‘reading with Granny’ initiative.

Prospect House, which is based in the High Street, has a team of reading companions made up of residents who are only too happy to help young pupils with their reading development and understanding.

Pairing dedicated Grannies with pupils during a scheduled day and time is proving to be a success with eight Year 3 pupils now regularly reading their favourite books to their matched ‘Granny’ – many are even popping in after school for additional unscheduled reading time.

Sharon Dodds, registered manager at Prospect House, is delighted with how the initiative has kickstarted, and says it has had an instant impact between both groups.

“This is a wonderful community initiative led by Barry Moss and our activities team," she said.

"The children and residents are having so much enjoyment and our residents’ moods have really been elevated as they look forward to the next reading day.

"Of course the children are really benefitting by having this dedicated focus and attention on them directly.

"It’s really lovely to see how these relationships are blossoming.”

For anyone interested in the 'Reading With Granny' initiative, please contact Prospect House directly on 01948 860011.