Generations working Together quote that Intergenerational work is not limited to early years children and older adults. Intergenerational work is essential, promoting greater understanding and respect between generations, contributing to building more cohesive communities and is recommended by the World Health Organisation as a means of effectively challenging ageism and reducing the negative impact upon physical and mental health as well as on the economy.

Dollar Park Dementia Service and Bantaskine Nursery

Dollar Park Dementia Service has had the opportunity to work in partnership with Bantaskine School Nursery. It has been proven that there are benefits of bringing together young children and older adults and we thought it would be a good idea to explore this further. Bantaskine Nursery was approached and they agreed to work in partnership with us. The children already visited Dollar Park, every Wednesday, for play and activities so was an ideal time for them to also link in with us. Following discussion it was agreed that there would be two sessions on a Wednesday morning. Up to 6 young children at each session which lasts approx. 45mins. We link in with the Early Years Officers who provide activity plans for us to follow. As we purchase the activity materials we can ensure that each activity suits our service users needs and are in a position to take part independently or with some assistance. As they are working alongside the children we are looking for relationship building, trust and joint participation. The long term goal is to reduce barriers between children and older adults and show the positive side of bringing the two generations together.

At this time we are seeing the benefits of such a collaboration. The children now recognise our building and look forward to visiting us. On arrival we can see the confidence growing in the children who are returning week after week. When they are met at the door they are always welcomed and it is ensured that each child is comfortable and excited. Due to memory impairment our service users do not always recall the children however once they enter the room we can see from their facial expressions the joy the children bring.