Bridges of Generations

The Project

The Intergenerational Project brings older women, or “aunties”, and young people together to build bridges between the generations, exchange knowledge and learn new things. The 12 month programme we are proposing will continue our pilot work, showcased in the BBC film, Bradford Aunties, consisting of twice weekly interactive workshops and monthly day trips, bringing together 40 young participants and 10 aunties.

They will be engaged via fun workshop sessions which will include the following:

● Social History: comparing historical perspectives, from the 1960s to the modern era;

● Skills: sharing knowledge about old and new skills, from sewing and gardening to using mobile phones effectively;

● Music and Dance: sharing and enjoying music from traditional South Asian styles, pop music from the 1960s and 70s, to modern genres;

● Cooking: learning about different styles of cookery, from traditional South Asian and British food, to street food styles;

● Sports: enjoying fun sports/social days in the park.

To build relationships and improve mental wellbeing, the group will also enjoy day trips out at the end of each month to destinations such as local seaside resorts, parks, bowling alleys and museums.

As a result of this project, participants will:

● Increase their understanding of different generations;

● Reduce their experiences of social isolation and loneliness;

● Find something to do other than sitting in the house;

● Learn new skills, such as using mobile phones effectively.

Participants are from racially minoritised and disadvantaged backgrounds and are often socially isolated. By sharing the different ways in which they see the world they not only expand their horizons, they also become better connected and improve their sense of belonging in their communities.