Radcliffe: Care home residents have makeover by students

Residents at HC-One’s Rose Court care home were offered the opportunity to enjoy a hair and make-up pampering session with 13 young people aged 16 to 18 from Bury College. 

One group of students, studying for BTECs in hair and media make-up at the college, were able to practice their skills at the care home’s onsite salon and coffee shop area.

Once the pampering session was completed, the freshly glammed-up residents were taken to a pop-up photography studio where students studying BTEC art and design were able to practice their camera skills.

Residents were guided through a photoshoot that aimed to capture their newly made-up looks, so that they had records of their experience they could keep and give to family and friends.

READ MORE: Unsworth: Tearful farewell as lollipop lady retires after 35 years

Student Katy Sherlock gives resident Mia Watson a make-over (Image: HC-One)

The students were able to gain valuable practical experience and hone their customer care capabilities. Both the students and the residents were delighted with the results.

Jean Palmer, who has been a resident at Rose Court for two months, said: “I have loved having my makeover.

"The students explained exactly what they were going to do, and they have done a very nice job. I also enjoyed wearing a lovely bright hat for my photo!”

Mia Watson, a resident at Rose Court for six months, said: “I’ve really enjoyed my makeover and have had a lot of fun. I can’t stop smiling! The way it’s come out is brilliant.”

READ MORE: Prestwich cancer survivor shines with grandson on charity night walk

Maddie Turnbull, a student at Bury College, said: “I’ve really enjoyed myself. I’ve loved speaking with the residents and seeing them smile with their friends.”

Rebecca Campbell, employment and engagement skills consultant at Bury College, said: “This was a great opportunity for our students to get some real-world work experience that they need to do as part of their courses, and they have really enjoyed it.

“They have demonstrated to future employers that they have the skills and positive attitude to succeed in the workplace, plus they have gained the added experience of working with mature customers - which they might not have got working in a commercial salon or photography studio.

“The students and residents have got on really well, and it’s been very nice to see that too.”

Rose Court care home wellbeing coordinator, Allison Porter, said: “Our residents really enjoyed having their make-up and hair done, and we look forward to seeing the photographs when they are ready.

“We love looking after our residents and today we have been able to make them feel super-special. They have enjoyed meeting the students and everyone has looked very happy.

"It really has been a lovely experience, and the students have been brilliant.

“We also look forward to welcoming back Bury College students in the future and have already arranged an art activity that I’m sure our residents will also love.”