Millie's Lockdown Rainbow Bears
Author: Ellie Compton
Published: June 19, 2020
After watching a programme on television that showed families visiting elderly relatives in care homes, former Scout Millie decided to do something to help others during lockdown.
Shielding routines meant that those who were more vulnerable had very little physical contact and no visitors inside their homes. When Millie saw the elderly relatives only able to watch their visitors through closed windows, she decided to use her sewing skills to make them a little friend to receive as a visitor they could welcome in.
Shielding routines meant that those who were more vulnerable had very little physical contact and no visitors inside their homes. When Millie saw the elderly relatives only able to watch their visitors through closed windows, she decided to use her sewing skills to make them a little friend to receive as a visitor they could welcome in.
Neil, Millie’s dad, is a leader at 27th Lincoln, Thorpe on the Hill where her younger brother is also a Beaver. Mum Laura, an occasional helper with the group, says, ‘Millie has a big heart and really cares for other people’s wellbeing. She’s made us very proud with her idea of wanting to help others who may be feeling lonely during these uncertain times.’
Calling them Millie’s Lockdown Rainbow Bears, each unique bear is made with a little rainbow heart and are donated free of charge. Millie hopes the bears will make their new owners smile, knowing that they are not alone and people out there still care about them.
Local donations of fabric are keeping Millie stocked with materials and she has already adapted her design to turn some of the tummies into pockets to hold photos and ‘memories’ for those recipients who might suffer from Alzheimer’s or dementia.
The family have been taking requests from people who may wish to nominate a care home or the name of elderly people who would love to receive a special bear hug in the post. Millie has so far sent 32 bears to Scarborough Hospice, 27 to a care home in Gainsborough and posted 18 individual orders – including a request from Australia for UK family members. Currently, Millie is creating 23 bears for a care home in North Hykeham and has a nomination waiting for 72 bears to another care home in Lincoln.
County Commissioner, Ellie Compton says, ‘This kind of initiative provides one of those moments that suddenly show how bright our young people shine in times of difficulty. Noticing problems, determining action and not shying from the sheer scale of making a difference. These little bears are sewn so beautifully around a stuffing of care and kindness that, in turn, can fill another person with love and hope. What an absolute superstar. Bravo, Millie.’
It was with great pleasure that Millie was registered as one of the Scouts 10,000 acts of kindness for care homes nationally.
Millie is happy to share her pattern, create an individual bear or group of bears to be sent to a nomination of your choice. If you would like to make a request or find out how you can donate funds for supplies or fabric to bring more bears to life, please email cc@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk
We’d love to share your story. If you have been busy while face to face scouting has been paused please let me know by emailing cc@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk
We’d love to share your story. If you have been busy while face to face scouting has been paused please let me know by emailing cc@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk
What Trustees do, really makes a difference. Lincolnshire Scouts are looking for a new Trustee for a 3 year term starting from September 2025. We need your experience and wisdom to help us make sure we’re well governed and managed.
Welcome to the latest edition of the Lincs County Bulletin. This is issued on the first Friday of each month. The bulletin will be sent to all adults registered on My Membership and distributed widely. To submit material for the bulletin please email howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk . Download as a PDF View historic Bulletins In this issue: From the County Lead Volunteer Brew It Forward Winners Announced! Chill Out - Groups and Staff Lincs Fest - Bookings open Inclusion Survey Join the Support Team New Lead Volunteer for Sleaford Needed From the County Youth Lead William Swift - Chief Scout’s Unsung Hero Award Winner Safety training Vacancies in County Section Support team National Scout Archery Competition
Congratulations to William of 7th Grantham for being 1 of 20 unsung heroes to receive an award from Chief Scout Dwayne Fields
World Scout Jamboree Leader Applications
☕ Brew it Forward – Nominate a Volunteer for a Well-Earned Cuppa!
Welcome to the latest edition of the Lincs County Bulletin. This is issued on the first Friday of each month. The bulletin will be sent to all adults registered on My Membership and distributed widely. To submit material for the bulletin please email howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk . Download as a PDF View historic Bulletins In this issue: From the County Lead Volunteer Brew it forward! Chill Out Membership System Programme Team Youth Shaped Safety Making plans for the future New Lead Volunteer for Sleaford needed Poacher 2026 Jamboree and County Internationals
We want to hear from YOU!
Adam Jacklin will be stepping down from his role as District Lead Volunteer for Sleaford District on 4 November 2025. As Adam prepares to step down as District Lead Volunteer for Sleaford this November, I would like to take the opportunity to offer my thanks for the energy, dedication, and leadership he has brought to the role. Adam has been a driving force behind many positive developments within the District, always bringing a thoughtful and steady approach to everything he does. Throughout his term, Adam has consistently put young people at the centre of our work. His collaborative style has helped build strong teams and foster a real sense of community among our volunteers. Whether supporting events, shaping strategy, or mentoring others, Adam has been generous with his time and tireless in his commitment to the values of Scouting. While Adam is stepping back from the DLV role, I know his involvement with the District and County will continue. I look forward to seeing the next chapter of his Scouting journey and extend our warmest thanks for the significant contribution he has made over the years. We are looking a new District Lead Volunteer roles for Sleaford District. As a result we are now recruiting for its next inspirational volunteer (or team of volunteers) to lead Sleaford District. Please click to download the pack which contains detailed information about the role as well as 2 application forms which volunteers can use to either express their interest in the role or to nominate someone else for consideration. We would love to hear from you if you would like to apply or if you would like to find out more information about the role. The deadline for all applications is 1 July 2025. Interviews will be held in July. Please contact malcolm.moore@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk or howard.nelson@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk if you have any questions. The application form and more information about the role is enclosed here . Applications should be sent to malcolm.moore@lincolnshirescouts.org.uk Deadline for Applications: 23:59 1 July 2025
