Negative attitudes towards their local area and weaker social networks, are today reported to be some of the key drives of loneliness amongst older people.
Many of Young Bristol’s venues are located in the most deprived urban communities in Bristol. However during daytime hours, Young Bristol’s Community Youth Clubs and other venues are under-utilised, whilst children and young people attend school. Over the years it has become Young Bristol’s increasing passion for our venues to become a vibrant facilitator to local communities.
Young Bristol’s work with older generations has developed over the years, with a popular Silver Social group for over 55s at Ashton Vale Club for Young People, providing older people with the company of others over a hot drink and a chat; and Broad Plain & Riverside Youth Project developing boxing sessions for those affected by Parkison’s Disease.
Intergenerational opportunities have also become a beneficial experience for young and old on our programmes, encouraging empathy, understanding, and helping to build strong ties across local communities. Trainee instructors from our Outdoor Employment Programme can be found delivering sessions at our weekly Over 55s Watersports Club, and young people from our Youth Clubs regularly take on social action programmes in local care homes.
Today Young Bristol are thrilled to share that we have received funding from Bristol’s City Funds grant programme, allowing us to set up and run a brand new Walking Football community project at our BS14 Stockwood Youth Club in Bristol, benefitting those aged 55+.
“Through our new programme older people can be more active, can come together to socialise, meet new friends, improve their wellbeing and enjoy regular exercise.” Lucy Saunders, Development & Fundraising Manager, Young Bristol.
As we continue to explore ways to expand our work into the wider community during 2021, our vision continues with the aim to connect communities, reduce social isolation and loneliness, and improve attitudes to the local area.
Photo credit: Camilla Adams
