Badgers Wood Care Home in Drayton has been awarded for its efforts to help elderly people feel less lonely.

Eastern Daily Press: From left, Justine Paston, Allie Poyle, Helen Godwin, Louise Burton, Sasha High, Kevin Groombridge, Anne Riches, Gareth Smith, Katie Walker, Stacey De Bod, Amy Smyth, Emma Gooch, Hannah Padmore, Coleen Ellis. Photo: Jamie GarbuttFrom left, Justine Paston, Allie Poyle, Helen Godwin, Louise Burton, Sasha High, Kevin Groombridge, Anne Riches, Gareth Smith, Katie Walker, Stacey De Bod, Amy Smyth, Emma Gooch, Hannah Padmore, Coleen Ellis. Photo: Jamie Garbutt (Image: Jamie Garbutt)

The care home's 'little friends' initiative sees children and toddlers from the community mix with older residents.

Additionally, children from a local school have been encouraged to visit and play music that residents might remember from their youth.

The care home has now received a Recognition of Commitment to the Community award for its efforts to reduce loneliness.

Anne Riches, the home's registered manager, said: 'We are committed to ensuring that our service users continue to be seen as valued members of the local community.

'Equally, we feel it is vital that the community has the opportunity to benefit from the experiences and social benefits that life within our care setting offers.'

She said the award was a reflection of the 'hard work' from the care home team.