A project on Anglesey that’s aimed at helping to break down the barriers between the younger and older generations in the community has been hailed a success.
Over the last few weeks youngsters from Benllech, Moelfre and Pentraeth Youth Clubs have been meeting up with the older residents by visiting care homes and community groups in the area.
PCSO Iona Beckmann said: “Intergenerational projects help to reduce the fear of crime amongst the older generation and they also help to educate the young.
“In the run up to Christmas the youngsters visited elderly residents and spent time with them by playing games. They also engaged with the older residents by talking to them as to how their behaviour can be perceived.
She added: “With assistance from the local Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator, Doreen Williams, they also assisted the Neighbourhood Policing Team to distribute free purse bells.”
With assistance from some North Wales Police Cadets, youngsters recently visited the Spring Home in Red Wharf Bay, whereby residents were entertained to a game of bingo.
“The residents and their families enjoyed the afternoon which involved a game of bingo – with PACT donating money for the prizes as well as money towards the youth clubs.”
“The day was fantastic and the youngsters have even arranged to re-visit over the next coming weeks,” said PCSO Beckmann.
“A visit was also arranged for the Benllech Cameo Club – a club that meet once a month at the Church Hall, and again, the youngsters talked to the residents and prepared refreshments and entertainment.
She added: “By joining together with the elderly community, the youngsters get a sense of ownership over the work they do within their own communities and gives them a sense of added pride. It also enables them to improve community spirit and the image of the young people in their area.
“The intergeneration projects will continue throughout 2010 to help encourage more links between the young and old.”
The photograph shows some of the youngsters playing bingo with the residents of the Cameo Club in Benllech.
