YOUNG and old joined forces this week as part of a new scheme to bring generations together.

Children from primary school visited care homes to sing songs and and play games with residents.

The intergenerational scheme was set up by North Ayrshire Council to promote a better understanding and respect between generations, building more connected communities and helping to address stigma.

Primary 6 pupils from Dykesmains Primary in Saltcoats, teamed up with North Ayrshire Council’s Library service to teach digital skills to service users at Castleview in Ardrossan.

The DabbleGen programme was funded by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations and aims to increase digital participation and reduce social isolation.

Councillor John Bell, Cabinet Member for Education and Youth Employment, said: “We are delighted that a number of our primary schools have been able to take part in these intergenerational activities.”

“Forging relationships between our younger and older residents is so important. Our older people have a lifetime’s worth of wisdom and experience to share, yet connections between the younger and older generations have sadly become less common in recent times.”

“There’s no doubt that the children get so much out of these sessions, and there are also many benefits for the older people, who might learn about new technology, have a renewed sense of purpose or gain emotional satisfaction through the projects.”

The partnership has now led to the creation of a North Ayrshire intergenerational working case study booklet. Visit /www.northayrshire.community/get-involved/youngpeople, where you can download the case study booklet.

This booklet shares some of the excellent examples of the work taking place across North Ayrshire and highlights the huge advantages this has for our residents.

To find out more about intergenerational working in your local area, visit North Ayrshire’s Community Planning Partnership website at http://www.northayrshire.community/get-involved/youngpeople, where you can download the case study booklet.

The website also features an interactive map which shows schools, community groups and care facilities for older people who are interested in developing intergenerational working in their community.