Millie's Lockdown Rainbow Bears

Author: Ellie Compton

Published: June 19, 2020

After watching a programme on television that showed families visiting elderly relatives in care homes, former Scout Millie decided to do something to help others during lockdown.

Shielding routines meant that those who were more vulnerable had very little physical contact and no visitors inside their homes. When Millie saw the elderly relatives only able to watch their visitors through closed windows, she decided to use her sewing skills to make them a little friend to receive as a visitor they could welcome in.

Neil, Millie’s dad, is a leader at 27th Lincoln, Thorpe on the Hill where her younger brother is also a Beaver. Mum Laura, an occasional helper with the group, says, ‘Millie has a big heart and really cares for other people’s wellbeing. She’s made us very proud with her idea of wanting to help others who may be feeling lonely during these uncertain times.’

Calling them Millie’s Lockdown Rainbow Bears, each unique bear is made with a little rainbow heart and are donated free of charge. Millie hopes the bears will make their new owners smile, knowing that they are not alone and people out there still care about them.

Local donations of fabric are keeping Millie stocked with materials and she has already adapted her design to turn some of the tummies into pockets to hold photos and ‘memories’ for those recipients who might suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia.

The family have been taking requests from people who may wish to nominate a care home or the name of elderly people who would love to receive a special bear hug in the post. Millie has so far sent 32 bears to Scarborough Hospice, 27 to a care home in Gainsborough and posted 18 individual orders – including a request from Australia for UK family members. Currently, Millie is creating 23 bears for a care home in North Hykeham and has a nomination waiting for 72 bears to another care home in Lincoln.

County Commissioner, Ellie Compton says, ‘This kind of initiative provides one of those moments that suddenly show how bright our young people shine in times of difficulty. Noticing problems, determining action and not shying from the sheer scale of making a difference. These little bears are sewn so beautifully around a stuffing of care and kindness that, in turn, can fill another person with love and hope. What an absolute superstar. Bravo, Millie.’

It was with great pleasure that Millie was registered as one of the Scouts 10,000 acts of kindness for care homes nationally.

Millie is happy to share her pattern, create an individual bear or group of bears to be sent to a nomination of your choice. If you would like to make a request or find out how you can donate funds for supplies or fabric to bring more bears to life, please email cc@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk

We’d love to share your story. If you have been busy while face to face scouting has been paused please let me know by emailing cc@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk

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