The award recognises the success of the 'Peedie Connections' initiative, which has been bringing nursery children and care home residents together since 2023 through regular shared learning experiences, creative activities, and community connections. Each week, children aged three to five visit Hamnavoe House to engage in themed sessions with residents aged between 60 and 100, including gardening, baking, arts and crafts, music, games, and sensory experiences.
The project was recognised in the Diversity and Inclusion category. Judges praised the quality and impact of the work, with one judge expressing a desire to visit Orkney to see the project first-hand. Caroline Easton, Early Learning & Childcare Manager at Stromness Nursery, stated, "We are delighted that Peedie Connections has received this recognition. To receive a Highly Commended award is a tremendous achievement for our nursery, our partners at Hamnavoe House and Orkney as a whole."
Easton added, "The project is built on meaningful relationships. Watching children and residents learn together, support each other and develop genuine friendships has been incredibly rewarding. The benefits can be seen across all generations." HM Inspectors have also described the nursery's intergenerational links as "outstanding" in a recent report.
The initiative was established to bridge the gap for children with limited opportunities to interact with older generations and for care home residents who lacked regular intergenerational experiences. Staff at Hamnavoe House report that residents' "eyes light up when the kids arrive", while families describe the sessions as "the highlight of their week".
Project leads Isla Rendall and Kelsey Harvey attended the awards event in Glasgow. Now in its third year, 'Peedie Connections' has become an established part of life for both organisations, with plans to further develop the partnership. Gwenda Shearer, Chair of Orkney Islands Council's Education, Communities and Housing Committee, congratulated all involved, highlighting the dedication of the staff and the mutual benefits for children and residents.
“"This award belongs to everyone who has helped make Peedie Connections such a success - our children, residents, families and staff. It demonstrates the power of community partnerships and shows how much we can learn from one another when generations come together."
“"We are incredibly proud to see Orkney's Peedie Connections Project recognised with the 2026 Excellence Award for Diversity and Inclusion. This award reflects the passion and commitment of everyone involved. We hope this achievement will inspire others to consider developing intergenerational approaches within their own communities."
