INTERGENERATIONAL CONNECTIONS
Creating Caring Connections provides support to organisations to introduce & integrate intergenerational connections into their settings.
‘Intergenerational practice aims to bring people together in purposeful, mutually beneficial activities which promote greater understanding and respect between generations and contributes to building more cohesive communities.
Intergenerational practice is inclusive, building on the positive resources that the younger and older have to offer each other and those around them’ (Beth Johnson Foundation, 2009).
Intergenerational connections can complement & enhance care & education through utilising the individuals who make up the community within which the provision is being provided. Research has identified many positive outcomes for all involved including an increase in physical & mental wellbeing.
Support will look different for each organisation but could include;
-Workshops to develop an understanding of intergenerational practice, its benefits, & ways to introduce & integrate the approach
-Support to connect with another organisation, introduce & integrate intergenerational connections
To find out more & discuss your requirements, please get in touch.
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'It has been a great experience working alongside Steph to make the intergenerational connections happen. She has been both professional and caring to organise and run successful sessions with the school children and residents of the care home. The sessions have been well thought out and coincide with our National Curriculum objectives, which has made the project meaningful. Thank you to Steph for all the hard work and effort she has gone to, to make this happen, it is clear that the residents and children have thoroughly enjoyed their weekly experiences' - Year 2 Teacher'
Taking part in Intergenerational Connections has been a great way for our residents to link up with younger members from the local community within the pandemic. Meeting up once a week and being able to take part in activities together, sharing work and stories. The residents have enjoyed getting to know the younger members and taking part in the range of activities within the sessions Steph has put together' - Activity Coordinator
Recent Projects
Grange Primary & Mill Lane - Felixstowe
2021-2023
Grange & Mill Lane have been connected since 2021. Starting with shorter 6-week pilot projects, working up to a year-long pilot in 2022-2023. From September 2023, the connection has continued independently, using the session plans created during the pilot projects. 'It is hard to say how much these opportunities mean to our residents, because they have so many benefits. In year 2 the ongoing relations with pupils attending for the 2nd year are commented on by the residents as the children grow and change, names are remembered, and new memories formed. The children become more confident in the environment and their different personalities shine. Residents look forward to preparing for the sessions and they have become a much-anticipated time of the week' Manager, Mill Lane Care Home
Langer Primary & Coniston House - Felixstowe
2024
Following a successful pilot project, Langer & Coniston House will be completing a year-long project from September 2024. 'The laughter, the stories shared, and the mutual listening really has enriched our residents' lives... Fostering a sense of purpose and relevance for our residents, reminding them that their stories are valuable and their presence cherished' Activity Coordinator, Coniston House 'The children always return to school full of positivity and desperate to tell us what they did and who they met... Children who find school challenging have the opportunity to make positive connections with residents, raising their self esteem and boosting their wellbeing' Head of School, Langer Primary
Heath Primary - Kesgrave
2025
A new project for 2025. Companionship Support meets Intergenerational Connections. Older adults will be supported to spend time with children in their classrooms on a monthly basis, playing games and listening to the children read.