A series of workshops are being held to bridge the gap between young and older people in Carmarthenshire.
The events, called ‘We are all young once’, are being held across the county and are a joint initiative between the Community Safety Partnership, 50+ Forum and Carmarthenshire Youth Council.
Older and younger people live, work, learn and play side by side. They may have common interests and concerns, live in the same area, pass each other in the street, shop in the same shops but may never engage with each other. As a result, distrust, misunderstanding, hostility and fear of each other can often develop.
The aim of the events is to improve relations between the two generations, as well as alleviate older people’s fear of youngsters and give young people a positive view for the elderly.
They will include information stands on services available to both older and younger people, as well as workshop sessions on issues important to them and a buffet lunch and refreshments. Neighbourhood Policing Officers will also be in attendance.
Community safety manager Kate Thomas said: “Through a serious of events we aim to bring older and younger members of the community together to challenge misconceptions and stereotypes and just give everyone a chance to get to know each other, work as a team, share experiences, debate issues and generally break down barriers in a safe and comfortable environment.
“Intergenerational work has been identified as an effective way to address a number of issues such as building an active community, promoting citizenship, regenerating neighbourhoods, and addressing inequality. Initiatives like these help to bring generations together and improve the understanding between them.”
The events are being held between 10.45am and 2.30pm at the Amman Centre in Ammanford on Tuesday, March 9; the Selwyn Samuel Centre in Llanelli on Thursday, March 11; the Halliwell Centre in Carmarthen on Tuesday, March 16; and the Gwenllian Court Hotel in Kidwelly on Thursday, March 18.
For further information please contact the Community Safety Partnership on 01554 742146.
