Project appeals for help

Learning scheme

A research project is seeking a new group of West Lothian volunteers aged between 60 and 85, to help find out how older people can help primary school pupils.

The study, by Strathclyde’s School of Psychological Sciences and Health, is exploring ways in which older adults can support pupils from P1 to P4 in activities including reading and writing. It is also looking at the benefits offering this support can bring to older people.

The project, entitled Generation for Generation, aims to promote health and wellbeing in older adults, while also improving young children’s attainment. The project has been running at four primary schools in West Lothian and has seen a positive response from volunteering adults.

One of the volunteers, Mona, said: “I am thoroughly enjoying working with a Primary 2 group. The children are enthusiastic, well mannered and well behaved. It’s great to be able to help and encourage them to meet their potential.”

Volunteers are asked to complete questionnaires and tasks looking at abilities such as memory and attention, on three occasions - before, during, and after taking part in the programme. The researchers are seeking volunteers who to commit four hours per day, two days per week, for six months in the current school year. They can apply to join one of the six participating primary schools, which are in Bathgate, Whitburn, and Blackburn. Information on the study is available by ema i l i n g anna. krzeczkowska@strath.ac.uk or calling 07376 468498.