Bridging the generation gap

Archived press release

Date Published: 16/02/09

An exciting new project designed to bridge the generation gap between young and older people gets underway in Aylesbury Vale this month.

The “Generate” project aims to promote greater understanding between the two age groups and help both to learn new skills. In doing so they will also learn about the common ground, shared values and concerns that exist across the generations.

During the half-term week, a group of 30 youngsters will be using Nintendo Wii consoles to run challenges and competitions for residents in sheltered housing accommodation in Aylesbury. The project will see older people taking part in virtual sports from golf and tennis to tenpin bowling.

The aim is two-fold – to demonstrate how the virtual games could help keep the residents active and alert as well as helping older and younger people to get to know each other a little better.

The pilot project is being run by Aylesbury Vale District Council, in partnership with Aylesbury Youth Action and Age Concern Bucks. Plans are in place for other intergenerational projects to follow later this year, including cooking classes and reminiscence workshops.

Councillor David Thompson, AVDC Cabinet Member for Leisure, said: “This is great opportunity for our older and younger residents to meet, have fun together and reassess their attitudes to each other. This project will help break down barriers between generations and encourage people to focus on the positive contributions that all age groups make to our community.”

For more information on the Generate project, contact Carl Cheevers on 01296 585224 or email ccheevers@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk