MASTERS students studying speech and language therapy are now regular visitors at a Colchester residential care home.

Essex University has teamed up with Silversprings on Tenpenny Hill so students can gain skills in adapting communication to fit different conversational styles, and in communicating effectively with older people.

Weekly visits form part of their university placement where they also work individually with residents to develop relationships and improve the residents’ wellbeing.

Sophie Chamberlain, 24, has ambitions to become a speech and language therapist with a focus on elderly people, particularly those living with dementia, after she graduates this year.

She said: "Our time here will be really beneficial to us as students, but also we hope to the residents, who we love visiting each week.

“I'm thoroughly enjoying my time here, it’s been great getting to know the residents and the Care UK team, who have been so accommodating."

Susan Oates, home manager at Silversprings, added: “It's been a brilliant opportunity to bring different generations together, and for residents to enjoy new conversations and experiences.

“The students have worked closely with a number of residents so far and plan to develop their studies next year by working more closely with residents who are living with dementia.”