Think Intergenerational: Connecting generations to support communities says that links between the younger and older generations need to be strengthened to stop the growing sense of isolation felt by some younger and older people.
To counter this, and in the wake of last month’s riots, the charity says that communities need to be developed where everyone feels they have a stake.
The report recommends that children’s centres and other community hubs should be encouraged and supported as a way of building strong intergenerational networks.
The Acacia Intergenerational Centre in Merton, south London, is one children’s centre that is already doing this, it says.
The report argues that the removal of ring-fencing has freed up local authorities to develop intergenerational schemes. Previously intergenerational projects struggled to get off the ground because services were financed by pots of funding according to age, for example services for under-fives.
Thinking in an intergenerational way could also help to solve long-term caring and housing problems.
The report cites the example of Homeshare, which currently operate in 11 areas, and involve householders sharing their homes with people who are willing to give help and support in exchange for somewhere to stay, possibly rent free.
Anne Longfield, chief executive of 4Children said, ‘We have to adopt a new perspective on young and older people and see them as community assets and not as a drain on public resources. It’s shortsighted that younger and older people are being under-utilised at a time when their activity could be the most beneficial to society.
With a fresh vision, we could combine their energies to create sustainable solutions – for example by maximising volunteering and by drawing on the unique assets of each generation.’
Andrew Bennett, director of the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, which backs the report, said, ‘Evidence shows that intergenerational connections bring individuals of all ages a greater sense of understanding and friendship across generations while helping them feel valued for their effort and skills. This 'Think Intergenerational' report outlines some of the essential changes that still need to be put in place to support the intergenerational relationships that are so precious to families and communities. These measures have the potential to create a resilient, happier society where all ages feel valued.’
