We’re celebrating National Intergenerational Week | News

There’s no feeling in the world quite like companionship, don’t you agree? It makes us feel wanted, appreciated and improves our quality of life. That friendly face you can talk to. The chance to meet new people. Being connected to your community. Here at Sussex Housing & Care we strive to help bring that sense of involvement to our residents and communities, young and old.

National Intergenerational Week takes place this week from 8 – 14 March. It’s a campaign connecting those passionate about intergenerational activity and inspiration across the UK. The campaign is all about celebrating those ideas, moments and opportunities local to us where different age groups come together and intergenerational friendships are made. It also gives us a chance to consider planning for the future. Opportunities for generations to connect are very important, especially as we emerge from the current pandemic.

In usual circumstances, Sussex Housing & Care connect with a variety of young people’s groups within our local community on a regular basis including school choirs singing carols at our care homes and housing schemes, Arty Time toddler group every Monday at Woodlands, regular toddler group visits at Oakwood Court, Saxonwood receive regular young visitors from Battle and Langton Primary School and Ardath have links with Bexhill College and primary schools.

      

Past events have included:

• Intergenerational VE day projects
• Countryside themed art project at Oakwood Court
• Arty fun at Woodlands for Dementia Action Week
• Fun and games with toddlers at Woodlands

Social engagement between generations is a key factor for the wellbeing of all, and as much as possible, we have stayed connected virtually during lockdown with younger generations.

     

School choirs came to sing (at a safe distance) outside our care homes at Christmas, and resident Peter at Saxonwood has connected with a pupil at Battle and Langton Primary School, Elijah who following a chance meeting prior to lockdown where they connected over a mutual love for target sports, have continued to bond by writing letters.

     

We’re looking forward to these physical interactions with the young returning soon and in the meantime, are looking forward to joining The Creation Station for virtual intergenerational workshops between our residents and their younger relatives in April, where we’ll be taking part in an official Guinness World Record attempt to create the largest online photo album of collages and helping them to showcase the creative face of the UK.

Are you passionate about connecting generations? If you would like to work with Sussex Housing & Care on future intergenerational projects, please contact the Communications team at communications@sussexhousing.org.uk, phone: 01323 875240.