89-year-old care home resident from Poole rejoins girl guides

89-year-old Sheila La Riviere, a resident at The Potteries care home in Poole, has rejoined the Girl Guides, reigniting her lifelong passion for the organisation.

With the support of her care home team and her daughter Cathy, Sheila’s wish to once again don the familiar uniform and reconnect with her Girl Guide roots was brought to life.

Sheila’s journey with the Girl Guides stretches back to the years just after World War II when she first joined as a Brownie. By age 11, in 1946, she had moved on to the Kenton Girl Guides, following in the footsteps of her mother, who had become a Guide back in 1912.

Guiding was more than a pastime for Sheila—it was a family tradition, one that she passed down to her daughter Cathy, who also became a member.

Over the years, Sheila found joy in the simple yet meaningful traditions of the Guides. She loved preparing food and singing with friends around the campfire. Her dedication to the organisation didn’t stop when she left the Guides; she went on to volunteer as both a district and division commissioner, ultimately dedicating 20 years of service.

This outstanding commitment earned her the Dorset Gentian award, a prestigious recognition for her long-standing contributions.

In a special ceremony organised by the care home staff, Sheila was given the opportunity to relive her Guiding days by joining the Broadstone Girl Guides and her daughter on an adventurous crabbing trip to Poole Quay.

Dressed once again in her beloved uniform, Sheila’s day was filled with laughter, nostalgia, and a deep connection to the organisation that has played such an important role in her life.

Picture credit: The Potteries Care Home