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Residents at Richmond Villages Bede have helped Bupa surpass a nationwide community challenge to knit baby bonding squares for hospitals across the UK.

Richmond Villages Bede celebrated Bupa’s 40th anniversary by joining a national effort which saw residents from around 50 Bupa care homes collectively knit an incredible 53,884 bonding squares.

The bonding squares, which measure 10cm x 10cm, are widely used in neonatal units to help mothers and premature babies bond while they are apart. One square is kept with the mother and one with the baby, and they are swapped regularly to help the baby recognise their mother’s scent and to support emotional bonding and milk supply. Neonatal units rely heavily on donations of these small but vital items.

The nationwide target originally began at 25,000 squares but was quickly surpassed. To mark 40 years of Bupa Care Services, the goal was increased to 40,000 before being far exceeded in November.

Richmond Villages Bede residents and members of the local community took part enthusiastically.

Debra Cosgrove, Village Manager at Richmond Villages Bede, said: “I am incredibly proud of our residents, staff and close community members who have worked on this challenge. It’s been a fantastic opportunity for everyone to work together and spend time together. We’re looking forward to continuing to knit together.”

One resident, Pat Baldwin, commented: “I haven’t knitted for years, but I gave it a go and now I’m addicted! I think it’s a lovely idea to share some warmth and support for premature babies in hospital. I plan to continue knitting for local baby units even though we’ve completed the challenge.”

Residents will continue their knitting next year, under a new initiative, ‘Need for Knitting.’ Bupa care homes and Richmond Villages will choose their own charities to knit for, with residents continuing to hand-knit donations for the likes of homeless shelters, animal rescue centres, children’s hospital charities and more.