Horndean care home residents share wisdom and advice for young women in honour of International Women's Day

Residents at Care UK’s Pear Tree Court, on Portsmouth Road, were asked to share the advice they’d give to their younger selves, as well as what they think young women today should know.

The advice overwhelmingly focused on being yourself and enjoying life to the full, with most women advising to trust yourself and follow your dreams.

Marjorie Dewar, 101, said: ‘Don’t put off till tomorrow what you can do today.’

‘Smile and the world smiles with you.’ was the advice shared by 91-year-old Phyllis Restall.

Sheila Jolliffe, 84, agreed with her neighbours and added: ‘There is nothing stronger than a woman who has rebuilt herself.’

This year marked the 90th anniversary of International Women’s Day, which celebrates women’s achievements while calling for a gender-balanced world.

This year’s theme, ‘choose to challenge’, encourages individuals to take a stand and call out gender bias and inequality.

Nicola Richards, home manager, said: ‘International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the successes and stories of women, and we have some amazing female residents who have some advice and wisdom to share with the next generation.

‘It was wonderful to hear about the lives of women who were born at a time when equality wasn’t a given. They have lived through a social revolution and witnessed the changing attitudes towards equality.

‘Residents enjoyed sharing their advice and it has been a really valuable reminiscence activity which has prompted lots of interesting conversations at the home. We hope their words of wisdom will resonate with the younger generation.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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