Residents young and old have been bridging the generation gap in a unique scheme to encourage respect and understanding between each other.
Young people who live in the Ystrad area have been working with residents at the Llys Ben Bowen Thomas complex to design and create a mosaic for the sheltered housing accommodation’s grounds.
As well as reassuring older residents that not all youths are “trouble” or disinterested in their community, the scheme has also led to the young people securing certificates for their volunteering efforts, as part of the Youth Challenge Award.
Generations young and old have also spent quality time with each other, learning about each other’s lives and how they feel about things.
Cllr Eudine Hanagan, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, said: “Intergenerational schemes such as this are so powerful because they bring generations together and change stereotypes.
“The young people involved have graduated with a sense of community, knowing they have achieved personally and have done something good for the older residents.
“This is exactly the kind of work that builds confidence and skills and breaks down the barriers that often hold young people back.”
