Student raises money to buy board games for Hemel Hempstead's care homes

A student is raising money to buy board games for the elderly in care homes in Hemel Hempstead.

Joba Thomas, from Hemel Hempstead, is appealing for the public's help in raising money to provide board games for care homes.

The 16-year-old came up with the idea as part of a social entrepreneur challenge at school, they had to come up with solutions to problems in the local community.

Joba said: "With lots of care homes being in lockdown and visitors not allowed in, I thought it could be having an affect on their mental health and wanted to do something to help.

"I decided to raise money to buy board games to give to care homes in my local area, Hemel Hempstead.

"Board games can help to alleviate the stress induced by this pandemic. Additionally, for care home residents with dementia, board games are a fantastic way to stimulate memories and maintain mental fragility.

"Board games could range from reminiscence games, suited for dementia, to snakes and ladders or even chess.

"I've had a lot of interest and I've spoken to eight care homes in Hemel who are interested in the board games.

"This plan will eventually expand to other areas such as Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire.

"I have created a fundraiser to fund to raise money to bu the board games, so far I've raised just over £200, I'm hoping to buy three board games for each care home."

To help Joba buy board games for the elderly in care homes, visit: www.gofundme.com/f/board-games-for-care-homes.