Bridging Ages CIC builds relationships between young and old. These relationships are mutually beneficial, addressing isolation and loneliness and developing a teen's social maturity and commitment to civic engagement. Intergenerational relationships challenge ageist attitudes, develop mutual respect and build social cohesion.
In Life Stories, Teenagers (16+years) interview an older person (over 70) about their life and then turn their stories into a book. The project is run by two local organisations (for example, a school and a housing facility for older people) using our online toolkit and book writing ap. The books are professionally published and a hardback edition is presented to the older participants at a public celebration. The experience of bringing young and old together is profound. The resulting books are a treasured document for families and can provide valuable insight for carers should a person’s mental abilities weaken.
Covid 19 had a serious impact on our work but we adapted; first by making the project available to individuals and now by modifying it for virtual use. The project can uniquely fulfil a demand for meaningful – but safe - intergenerational projects in the coming years.
