Students help to beat isolation

GRAPHIC Design and Photography students at Cronton Sixth Form College have partnered with charity organisation Age UK to take part in a heart-warming project to raise awareness of people becoming isolated and feeling invisible as they grow older.

The campaign hopes to raise awareness through posters and photobooks displaying real life stories of older people affected by loneliness.

The college was contacted by Milorad Vasic from Halton Borough Council and Clare Lightfoot from Age UK with the possibility of including creative arts students in the project.

Graphic design and photography students Alisha Kirby, Charlotte Lake and Katie Mealing were delighted to take part and use the talents they have developed so far on their course.

Age UK organised for five people to come into the College to be highlighted in the campaign.

The talented students put together a series of photoshoots with the group and used the pictures taken to

create the poster campaign and photobook.

The campaign will go live in the local area soon, with the possibility of the work becoming involved in a national campaign.

David Lenderyou, programme area leader for creative arts and graphic design tutor said: “It has been a fantastic experience for our learners.

“They have been given the opportunity to work on a ‘real life’ project and to get the chance to participate in a project with Age UK has made the experience all the more special.

“In addition to the experience of working on a client led brief, they have also had the opportunity to meet a wonderful bunch of people.”

Katie Mealing said: “Working with Age UK allowed me to open my mind and connect with the older generation, we have more in common than you realise.”

Alisha Kirby said: “I have really enjoyed working on the project and meeting so many lovely people along the way that have shared their stories with us.

“It has been a pleasure to have been able to take part in such a fantastic project.”