Charity Adopt a Grandparent has signed up its first father and son to virtually “adopt” grandparents in two UK care homes.

Tristan Sue, 15, and his 48-year-old father Jeff have “adopted” 78-year-old David Abel and 74-year-old Margaret Smith from Surrey care homes Surrey Heights and Kings Lodge.

Adopt a Grandparent aims to combat loneliness and foster meaningful relationships among the UK’s older population. Tristan signed up to the scheme to fulfil the volunteering section of his Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award, which endorses the charity. He was matched with David due to their similar interests, particularly football.

Jeff said: “The process to apply was straightforward and pairing up with a suitable ‘grandparent’ occurred within a month or so.  All the calls have been scheduled for times to suit everyone and both care homes have been very supportive throughout. I’ve spoken to Margaret four times now and we get on really well, covering a variety of topics during the calls. It has certainly been an enjoyable programme so far and I would encourage others to sign up.”

Karen Roberts, Surrey Heights’ wellbeing co-ordinator, facilitates the calls between Tristan and David. “During the calls, David always smiles and laughs which is wonderful to see,” she said. “Despite having advanced dementia, David responds well to Tristan and enjoys the contact of a younger person.”

Founder of Adopt a Grandparent, Shaleeza Hasham, said: “We’re delighted that Tristan and Jeff have added an extra generation to their family with their recent ‘adopted’ grandparents.”

Those who wish to sign up as a volunteer can do so by visiting the website or downloading the free app, which is available through Apple’s App Store and Google Play.