Sherburn House Charity Project

Janet Dixon- Dawson

In October 2022, under the guidance of our College Chaplain Andrew Tinkler, Ben Webb our JCR Outreach Officer and Grace Marshall our JCR Female Welfare Officer, along with student volunteers from our College and Stephenson, began an inter-generational befriending project which is being warmly received by the residents of Sherburn House Charity.

The Charity was founded by the then Bishop of Durham, Hugh Pudsey, in around 1181 when its original purpose was as a leper hospital run by monks and nuns. The Charity now uses its budget to provide care and accommodation for older people in a residential home, as well providing 24 dwellings for sheltered housing and homes for private rent. It also awards grants to alleviate hardship for more vulnerable members of the community.

Throughout this Term, regular visits have been made by the students to Sherburn House where they and the residents spend time learning about each other’s lives and experiences and share board games, music, good company and a cuppa! As part of the Project, on Wednesday 7th December a group of our students along with Andrew, delivered a Christmas Carol Service and shared festive cheer at this special time of year.

Pauline Bishop, Chief Executive of Sherburn House Charity, on behalf of the Charity and residents, has thanked our students for their involvement and the valuable contribution they are making to the lives of their residents. We add our thanks to all those involved .

The Project will continue next Term and beyond, so if you are interested in getting involved, please contact the JCR.