Teen Volunteer Shows New Friendship Has No Age Limit at Buckingham Care Home

A 14-year-old from Buckingham is spending his free time at a local care home, where a shared love of chess has helped forge a friendship across generations.

Jake Barnes, a student at Buckingham School, visits Lace Hill Manor for two hours every week – a routine that began as the volunteering element of his Duke of Edinburgh Award but has since become a regular commitment.

GCSE student Jake’s weekly game of chess with Neil, 78, has become a familiar sight at the home, bringing two generations together over the chessboard.

“I come alive when we sit down to play chess,” is how Neil, who has enjoyed chess all his life, describes the visits.

He adds:

“I really look forward to Jake coming every Tuesday. Being in a care home, you can feel as if it’s your last stop. Through inactivity, that becomes a reality, but if you have something to look forward to, your life still has a purpose.”

For Jake, the visits are also something to look forward to. He explains:

“I started coming to Lace Hill as part of my Duke of Edinburgh, but I enjoyed it so much that I’ve carried on.

“I really like playing chess with Neil, and I enjoy seeing everyone having a good time. It feels good to give something back, and my family are really proud of me.”

At a time when many teenagers might fill their spare hours with screens or socialising, Jake has chosen to continue volunteering beyond the requirements of his Duke of Edinburgh award, returning week after week and making a difference to life for those in the home.

Staff say his visits have had a noticeable impact. Lizz Dewhurst, Lifestyle Coordinator at Lace Hill Manor, says:

“We are absolutely delighted to have Jake visiting every week to spend time with us – he is a lovely, genuine chap and brings a wonderful energy to the home. People tend to think of teenagers in a certain way, but Jake is testament to all the best qualities our young people have.

“It is truly heartening to see the pair, generations apart in age and experience, connect over a timeless game – it proves age is no barrier to friendship.

“We’re so glad to welcome Jake and to have such a great relationship with our amazing local community.”