National Intergenerational Week

By Ann Johnson

Have you heard of National Intergenerational Week? Me neither, it is now in its second year and it is essentially an online campaign connecting those passionate about intergenerational activity and inspiration across the UK. It takes place from 8-14 March 2021 and the campaign is all about celebrating those ideas, moments and opportunities local to us where different age groups come together and intergenerational friendships are made!

It also gives a chance to consider planning for the future and developing new themes such as developing spaces and places. Opportunities for generations to connect will become even more important as we emerge from the current pandemic and the campaign wants to inspire people to build relationships between different generations.

For over a year I have been hosting a weekly family Zoom quiz, with the very youngest being 1 years old but not answering any of the questions (just providing a nice lead into the questions) to the oldest being 86 and often winning. When designing each quiz in turn we have considered the knowledge, equity and balance of the questions or rounds so that all ages have a fair chance of getting some or all the questions right- so working in a way that considers each generation. 

Having been working from home for over a year, this experience of generational bonding has made me even more keen to plan and consider other activities we can all do together as we come out of the pandemic. Keeping in line with the legal road map of course but continuing that value of coming together every week. Not just visiting every member for a cup of tea but considering what we may all want from being outdoors together.

They will all want to be getting outdoors I am sure, meeting for picnics, taking a stroll round my dad’s garden plot, visiting other places of interest and simply finding a green space to catch up with life with the gang. I still have my parents both active in their 80’s and my grown-up children and now grandchildren. So, there is so much opportunity for intergenerational engagement and enjoyment in the great outdoors.

Those moments of all getting together means opportunity for sharing memories, cringe worthy jokes, hopes for the future and the sharing of skills and ideas for the next trip out from everyone.

My happiest memories with the wide family will always be those times spent outdoors. From spending many holidays with three generations going camping, walking or exploring the great outdoors together. Joining in outdoor activities are such a great way to engage in something, learn new skills and chat whilst doing so.

The intergenerational week coincides with the first planned relaxing of some COVID19 restrictions allowing a household to leave home for recreation and exercise outdoors, so perhaps my dreams of being outdoors with the family will not be too far away.

Forest of Hearts is so keen to make the outdoors accessible to all which of course means mixing up the generations, with chances to meet and learn from each other as part of intergenerational groups. We are keen to seek volunteers of all ages as we know the value that being with people of different ages brings to the local community. To join in with our planting, digging out, seeding, maintenance programmes and so much more just get in touch, there is something for everyone, no matter what age you are.