Photography project helps make friends too

The extra-care housing facility opened three years ago, with residents getting their own flat.

In a bid to get residents to know each other, the photography group started in November, with 10 members. Now an exhibition of their work has been put up in the entrance.

Flo Corbin, 82, is one the group members.

‘I have never done photography before, so I thought I would come along,’ she said.

‘We had a lovely man teaching us and he gave me a camera to take home.’

Mrs Corbin began photographing everything she could, but was confused when the camera suddenly stopped working. Fortunately it was just due to all her snapping running down the battery.

Initially she thought her images were not very good, but when she got to see them she was really pleased. She is now planning to get her own camera.

‘I really loved it,’ she said. ‘I know all the residents, but this has helped me get to know them better.’

Judy Hayman has lived in Courtil Jacques, which is behind Le Grand Courtil, for six years. She said the photography group was part of a bigger scheme.

‘We want to turn this place into a community,’ she said.

‘This group has brought everyone together. It’s not just about taking photos, but discussing them, and people have really opened up.’

When the facility first opened there were concerns that residents would be isolated.

Mrs Hayman said that was why it was vital activity groups were set up to help people interact.

Politicians and local dignitaries were invited to see the pictures and talk to the photographers.

The idea has been supported by the Dandelion Project, which aims to improve islanders’ quality of life.

Project member Valerie Winn said it had been going really well.

‘It’s really exciting to see this,’ she said.

Le Grand Courtil care manager Carolynne Bourgaize said the photography exhibition had been a great success.

‘Everyone who comes here sees it,’ he said. ‘We all have a favourite picture.’