An educational charity has received a cash boost to help continue sessions linking schoolchildren with people in care homes.

XLWales has received a £1,000 fillip from Persimmon West Wales as part of its long-running Community Champions scheme. Persimmon donates up to £64,000 to worthy causes each month.

Swansea-based XLWales delivers STEM activities in schools to enthuse children and help them develop life skills.

During the pandemic, XLWales has been running intergenerational activities by facilitating sessions involving both children and care home residents.

Clare Phillips, of XLWales, said: “We’re delighted to receive this donation from Persimmon Homes, it’s a tremendous boost. “Before the pandemic struck we were taking primary school pupils into care homes to work together on activities such as Lego and art and crafts.

“When the restrictions were enforced, we reacted by making these activities digital, which had a massive impact on the wellbeing of the care home residents.

“This funding from Persimmon will help to us continue our face-to-face intergenerational sessions when the situation allows.” Sharon Bouhali, sales director at Persimmon West Wales, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support this fantastic charity.

“Care home residents have been left isolated and lonely during the pandemic. I’m sure they have really enjoyed working with the schoolchildren through this project, and the kids would’ve got a lot out of it as well.”

Persimmon is currently building stunning new homes across South West Wales, including in Bridgend, Llanelli and Haverfordwest.