Four-Year-Old Fred Becomes Youth Ambassador at Keymer Hall
Boutique Care Homes has appointed its youngest-ever ambassador at its newest home, Keymer Hall. Fred, who turns five later this year, has been named Youth Ambassador just two months after the home opened, continuing the intergenerational work that earned Boutique Care Homes the prestigious NAPA Award for Intergenerational Engagement in January 2026.
Fred’s relationship with Keymer Hall began before construction was even complete. Living nearby, the curious four-year-old became fascinated with the building work, making daily observations of its progress from his home. Before Christmas, unable to contain his excitement about the home’s opening, he arrived at reception dressed as an elf, accompanied by his father, carrying a large tin of Roses chocolates. “They’re for you,” he told receptionist Caz, “we wanted to welcome you to the neighbourhood.”
Staff were so touched they sent Fred a thank you card, which now sits in his drawer among his most prized possessions.
Weeks later, Fred was invited to join residents for the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch alongside visiting pre-school children. He loved every moment. His natural enthusiasm and the genuine connections he formed with residents that day convinced the leadership team to formalise his regular visits by creating the role of Youth Ambassador – a first for Boutique Care Homes.
When Home Manager Christine Bunce presented Fred with his official badge, the normally confident little boy went shy, but his delight was obvious. Since then, he’s become a firm favourite with residents and staff alike.
The moment that captured hearts came on Valentine’s Day, when Fred visited to distribute roses to residents. Joyce, 96, was utterly overwhelmed with emotion. “She was really taken aback at how lovely it was for him to think of them and come in,” said Helen Lewis. Fred has also formed a special bond with Jean, 94, and regularly joins residents for craft activities, one of his favourite pastimes.
When asked what he loves most about visiting Keymer Hall, Fred said simply: “I like being able to give back to people and I really enjoy being around older people.”
Christine Bunce, Home Manager at Keymer Hall, said: “Fred’s genuine thoughtfulness and natural warmth have brought such joy to our residents. From the moment he arrived as our little elf with chocolates to welcome us to the neighbourhood, we knew he was special. As Youth Ambassador, Fred represents the very best of our young people and shows the magic that happens when generations come together. Residents and staff think he is a delightful little boy, and they’re always impressed by how thoughtful he is.”
Helen Lewis, Head of Lifestyle and Wellbeing, added: “Fred is representing local children and showing how precious intergenerational connections are. This is exactly the kind of engagement that won Boutique Care Homes the NAPA Award just weeks ago, and Fred shows we’re living those values at Keymer Hall every single day. He visits every few weeks, but he has an open invite and watching Joyce’s reaction on Valentine’s Day reminded us all why this work matters so much. This is what care homes should be about – real relationships and genuine community connections.”
The story has wider community impact. Fred’s Grandad Howard, who has aphasia following a stroke, runs Say Aphasia, a local support group for around 15 members. After attending Keymer Hall’s Stroke Friendship Café, the group hopes to make the home its permanent base within the next month.
Boutique Care Homes won the NAPA Award for Intergenerational Engagement in January 2026, recognising the group’s innovative approach to bringing together different generations to enhance wellbeing and combat social isolation across all its homes. Keymer Hall, which opened in December 2025, is already demonstrating this award-winning approach just two months after welcoming its first residents.
For more information about Keymer Hall, please visit www.keymerhall.care
