Project is aiming to bring people closer
A new group has been launched in Stonehouse, aimed at reducing social isolation and promoting closer integration between children and older people.
The Avondale LEAP Hands On Project has launched an Intergenerational Friendship Group, in partnership with the South Lanarkshire town’s Newfield Primary School.
The friendship group, which is partly to improve health and wellbeing for both age groups, launches on Monday, October 21, at Newfield Primary School, between 1.45pm and 2.45pm.
It will run again twice before Christmas, on Monday, November 4, and Monday, December 2, and is open to anyone in the area who is over the age of 50, who may benefit from the chance to socialise, connect with the community, have a chat, and meet new people.
Although the group is free to attend, spaces are limited, and these can be booked by calling the Avondale office on 01357 518900.
There are several benefits from participating in intergenerational activities, for adults and children alike.
These include improving relationships and understanding between children and older people, reducing ageism and stereotyping, and improving health and wellbeing for both age groups.
Other benefits include reducing isolation and loneliness for both age groups, developing a wider perception of the local community, and helping children to develop a more positive image around ageing.
It is also hoped that the group can increase opportunities for physical activity, and to bring joy and happiness, and build new friendships to everyone involved.
A spokesperson for Avondale LEAP told the Advertiser: “The Leap Hands On Project’s key objectives are to alleviate loneliness and reduce social isolation amongst older people in the local community, and our friendship groups are just one of the ways in which it works towards these.
“The Hands On Project also delivers a free one-to-one befriending service in the home, and a free handyperson service for practical support with small jobs around the house.
“Both of these services are delivered via a team of fully-trained, fully-vetted volunteers.”
The Avondale Hands On Project is funded by LEADER, The Robertson Trust, South Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnership and CORRA Foundation.
If you or anyone you know may benefit from any of the free services LEAP can offer, or if you would like to know more about volunteering opportunities with the project, contact the Avondale office on 01357 518900.
More information is also available at leap-project.co.uk.