The UK has an ageing population. There are more people over 65 than there are people under 16.
What impact is this having on our communities? How does this affect community projects? This publications explains how older people can make a difference to your projects and how your projects can improve their lives.
This field guide was published by the Eden Project as part of its Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more at www.biglunchextras.com
An Eden Project Field Guide to community food projectsEdenProjectWebTeam
Food is a basic human need. Local food can help to strengthen our communities and reduce our impact on the environment. In this publication you’ll find a host of ideas to get you thinking, bite-sized explanations and signposts where you can follow them up in more detail. This field guide was published by the Eden Project as part of its Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more at www.biglunchextras.com
An Eden Project Field Guide to working with young peopleEdenProjectWebTeam
Young people are our future. How we treat them is an important indicator of the health and wellbeing of our society. The Eden Field Guide to Working With Young People explains why working with young people is so important and provides advice on how to go about it. This field guide was published by the Eden Project as part of its Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more at www.biglunchextras.com
Inclusive communities are better communities. An inclusive community which welcomes diversity and encourages and enables participation is better placed to withstand the challenges of the future. This guide explains what it means to be inclusive, and the methods we can use to make sure everyone gets a chance to join in.
This field guide was published by the Eden Project as part of its Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more at www.biglunchextras.com
Community green space projects can transform communities for the better, improving health and wellbeing, creating stronger social networks, and making a positive impact on environmental issues. This publication takes you through the benefits and offers guidance on the different types of green space projects you can do and how to get started. It was published by the Eden Project as part of its Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more at www.biglunchextras.com
An Eden Project Field Guide to community-owned places and spacesEdenProjectWebTeam
Dave Chapman has over 25 years of experience working with and supporting communities. He is currently the director of Triformis Limited, a social enterprise focused on community-led development. Chapman has expertise in areas such as community-led development, property negotiations, strategic planning, and project management. He believes that community assets can be transformative when a community has people who are passionate about the project and a clear plan.
This document provides an introduction to the book "Extraordinary Communities" and discusses several examples of extraordinary communities. It begins by explaining that the book celebrates community projects that are driven by ordinary people's passion to enact positive change. Several case studies are then described in 1-2 sentences each, highlighting communities that have come together to preserve historic buildings and sites, including Braemar Castle, Richmond Station, Sandford Parks Lido, Bramley Baths, Hastings Pier, and Battersea Town Hall.
Author Amy Neumann will suggest simple acts that you can do to make a difference during a free online talk at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020.
Neumann is the writer of “Simple Acts to Change the World: 500 Ways to Make a Difference.” During her program, she’ll discuss her book, what inspired it, and how you can change the world – even in these atypical and turbulent times.
She’ll also explain:
The science behind why we feel so good when we help others
How you can volunteer and help from home
Ways for kids to get involved with giving and volunteering
Options for people with limited mobility or other physical limitations
Simple ways to help your favorite local charity virtually
A comprehensive resource outlining and exemplifying active concern for our environment.
Why? Looking after a wonderful world specially designed for human beings; human rights & responsibilities, respecting one another & having freedom to choose involves caring for your country
What? litter pick-ups, designing community bins, various websites/videos raising highlighting issues, awareness-raising campaigns
How? Bags of inspiration for doing something in the style of Martin Luther King
Who? You - how will you respond. Doing nothing is not an option
See related Litter Article, which is evaluated as part of the lesson scheme of work.
An Eden Project Field Guide to community food projectsEdenProjectWebTeam
Food is a basic human need. Local food can help to strengthen our communities and reduce our impact on the environment. In this publication you’ll find a host of ideas to get you thinking, bite-sized explanations and signposts where you can follow them up in more detail. This field guide was published by the Eden Project as part of its Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more at www.biglunchextras.com
An Eden Project Field Guide to working with young peopleEdenProjectWebTeam
Young people are our future. How we treat them is an important indicator of the health and wellbeing of our society. The Eden Field Guide to Working With Young People explains why working with young people is so important and provides advice on how to go about it. This field guide was published by the Eden Project as part of its Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more at www.biglunchextras.com
Inclusive communities are better communities. An inclusive community which welcomes diversity and encourages and enables participation is better placed to withstand the challenges of the future. This guide explains what it means to be inclusive, and the methods we can use to make sure everyone gets a chance to join in.
This field guide was published by the Eden Project as part of its Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more at www.biglunchextras.com
Community green space projects can transform communities for the better, improving health and wellbeing, creating stronger social networks, and making a positive impact on environmental issues. This publication takes you through the benefits and offers guidance on the different types of green space projects you can do and how to get started. It was published by the Eden Project as part of its Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more at www.biglunchextras.com
An Eden Project Field Guide to community-owned places and spacesEdenProjectWebTeam
Dave Chapman has over 25 years of experience working with and supporting communities. He is currently the director of Triformis Limited, a social enterprise focused on community-led development. Chapman has expertise in areas such as community-led development, property negotiations, strategic planning, and project management. He believes that community assets can be transformative when a community has people who are passionate about the project and a clear plan.
This document provides an introduction to the book "Extraordinary Communities" and discusses several examples of extraordinary communities. It begins by explaining that the book celebrates community projects that are driven by ordinary people's passion to enact positive change. Several case studies are then described in 1-2 sentences each, highlighting communities that have come together to preserve historic buildings and sites, including Braemar Castle, Richmond Station, Sandford Parks Lido, Bramley Baths, Hastings Pier, and Battersea Town Hall.
Author Amy Neumann will suggest simple acts that you can do to make a difference during a free online talk at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020.
Neumann is the writer of “Simple Acts to Change the World: 500 Ways to Make a Difference.” During her program, she’ll discuss her book, what inspired it, and how you can change the world – even in these atypical and turbulent times.
She’ll also explain:
The science behind why we feel so good when we help others
How you can volunteer and help from home
Ways for kids to get involved with giving and volunteering
Options for people with limited mobility or other physical limitations
Simple ways to help your favorite local charity virtually
A comprehensive resource outlining and exemplifying active concern for our environment.
Why? Looking after a wonderful world specially designed for human beings; human rights & responsibilities, respecting one another & having freedom to choose involves caring for your country
What? litter pick-ups, designing community bins, various websites/videos raising highlighting issues, awareness-raising campaigns
How? Bags of inspiration for doing something in the style of Martin Luther King
Who? You - how will you respond. Doing nothing is not an option
See related Litter Article, which is evaluated as part of the lesson scheme of work.
Here is our monthly publication about our partnership in Memphremagog MRC.
By your good's practises, we would like to inspire you in you environment's development.
We hope you will have fun reading it.
Follow us on Facebook....
This session looks at developing an understanding of the shared needs between generations, the types of spaces required to support intergenerational usage and the experiences these spaces would provide.
The document discusses Just Around the Corner, a registered charity in Woodley and surrounding areas that works with youth through outreach, schools, and existing youth clubs. Their mission is to give hope to young people by demonstrating love,
Understand the purpose and impact of social action (2)carriehelie
The document discusses Just Around the Corner, a registered charity in Woodley and surrounding areas that works with youth through outreach, schools, and existing youth clubs. Their mission is to give hope to young people by demonstrating love,
Make a Difference: Put Your Teen Energy and Enthusiasm to Work!TeenLife
Volunteering in any capacity makes you a better person, inspires you to spread goodwill, and helps you grow in so many ways on a personal level. It is a win win for all involved.
The document discusses several topics related to recycling including examples of items that can be recycled such as plastic, glass, paper, and metals. It outlines advantages of recycling like helping create a cleaner environment, reducing pollution, and making previously unusable items useful. A potential disadvantage is if people incorrectly assume items can be recycled when they cannot. The document also discusses other forms of recycling beyond bins, like charity shops, thrift stores, and organizations that accept donations. Creating a video about recycling could inspire people to properly handle their garbage and raise environmental awareness.
Empowering communities through social innovationRobin Low
Good intentions are not enough, you need to think critically about impact to ensure your efforts are not wasted and you can always work with communities near you to solve social problems.
Presented during Tshikululu's first Serious Social Investing workshop, which took place on 25 and 26 February 2010. Michael Norton OBE discusses social entrepreneurs and the ability of individuals to change the world.
Natural Connections - the story so far (July 2016v1.2)Tracy Lambert
This document provides a mid-project summary of the Natural Connections project, which aims to enhance green spaces in Cumbernauld, Scotland and connect both people and wildlife. It discusses how the project has engaged young people and the local community in environmental activities, conservation, and outdoor art projects. Over 45 young people and 38 volunteers have participated so far in restoring three wildlife sites. The project has helped build skills and confidence among young people and volunteers, and has engaged over 7,000 community members through public events.
If you’re looking to elevate your momentum in the fight against polio, this interactive session is for you. Join us as we explain how to create a "bottom-up district polio action plan,” which includes awareness campaigns, advocacy, fundraising, and hands-on work.
Intergenerational Housing: Making affordable housing a realityAlison Clyde
How can young and older people share homes together? Wohnbuddy are successfully matching younger and older people to share a home together. here they share their journey and experiences.
Young people can participate in volunteer services in three main ways. They can help the elderly in their community through activities that interact and support senior citizens. They can also help less fortunate people abroad through projects that provide aid and improve lives. Additionally, volunteering for activities that help the country directly or indirectly allows young people to give back and learn new skills while benefiting their homeland.
http://www.intensifyyouth.com - Our mission is to bring together a team of experts to engage, inspire and transform the lives of EVERY young person on this planet.
We've got MASSIVE goals, and a VERY clear vision.
Please share our vision and help us evoke global change.
http://www.intensifyyouth.com
Kudoz & the Fifth Space: activating resources inside and outside of the system.InWithForward
Kudoz & the Fifth Space are two prototypes that we are currently working on in the disability field in British Columbia, Canada. This slide deck is a short summary about what they are and why.
The document discusses building a movement to reconnect children with nature by creating nature clubs for families. It notes that children today spend less time outdoors than ever before. The benefits of connecting with nature include improved happiness, health, and academic performance. The Children & Nature Network aims to create a culture where all children have opportunities for direct experiences in nature. Their initiatives include the Natural Families Network to inspire the creation of neighborhood nature clubs, as well as providing online resources and a social networking platform to support clubs. The document highlights examples of existing nature clubs and their positive impacts on families and communities.
This document outlines plans for a community organizing event called #7days4stow to address pressures facing residents of Walthamstow in 2013. It identifies local projects that could help, such as food banks and job training. Example actions are provided, such as mapping loan sharks and recruiting volunteers to promote affordable credit. The document discusses coordinating small, low-risk tasks among volunteers to support these projects through activities like distributing flyers and creating referral networks. It aims to bring people together, identify community needs, and plan bite-sized volunteer actions to enact positive change at a local level.
The document is an annual report for Creative Minds, an initiative that promotes creative approaches to healthcare. It highlights some of the innovative projects Creative Minds has supported over the past year in local communities. These include art therapy for domestic abuse survivors, sensory playgroups for babies with physical needs, and a theatre company for adults with learning disabilities performing at major theatres. The report also outlines Creative Minds' plans to continue championing creative approaches, consolidate successful projects, and explore new opportunities and partnerships.
Slides from a presentation designed to help you map your community business on a page, whether established or just an idea. This supports the talk given by Power to Change at the Eden Project, as part of the Big Lunch Extras programme.
This document describes several agricultural techniques including direct seeding, hydroponics, hybridization, tissue culture, genetic engineering, crop rotation, and biological pest control. Direct seeding plants seeds directly into soil using machines. Hydroponics grows plants in nutrient solutions rather than soil. Hybridization breeds plants and animals to enhance desirable traits. Tissue culture generates new plants from parent plant cells in a sterile medium. Genetic engineering transfers beneficial genes between organisms. Crop rotation cultivates different crops in succession to maintain soil fertility without building up pest populations specific to certain crops. Biological pest control uses natural predators and parasites to control pests.
A detailed presentation on what is Heliophysics. It's the study of the sun and environment around it. Explaining some basic concepts regarding the same in a very interesting and innovative way.
Here is our monthly publication about our partnership in Memphremagog MRC.
By your good's practises, we would like to inspire you in you environment's development.
We hope you will have fun reading it.
Follow us on Facebook....
This session looks at developing an understanding of the shared needs between generations, the types of spaces required to support intergenerational usage and the experiences these spaces would provide.
The document discusses Just Around the Corner, a registered charity in Woodley and surrounding areas that works with youth through outreach, schools, and existing youth clubs. Their mission is to give hope to young people by demonstrating love,
Understand the purpose and impact of social action (2)carriehelie
The document discusses Just Around the Corner, a registered charity in Woodley and surrounding areas that works with youth through outreach, schools, and existing youth clubs. Their mission is to give hope to young people by demonstrating love,
Make a Difference: Put Your Teen Energy and Enthusiasm to Work!TeenLife
Volunteering in any capacity makes you a better person, inspires you to spread goodwill, and helps you grow in so many ways on a personal level. It is a win win for all involved.
The document discusses several topics related to recycling including examples of items that can be recycled such as plastic, glass, paper, and metals. It outlines advantages of recycling like helping create a cleaner environment, reducing pollution, and making previously unusable items useful. A potential disadvantage is if people incorrectly assume items can be recycled when they cannot. The document also discusses other forms of recycling beyond bins, like charity shops, thrift stores, and organizations that accept donations. Creating a video about recycling could inspire people to properly handle their garbage and raise environmental awareness.
Empowering communities through social innovationRobin Low
Good intentions are not enough, you need to think critically about impact to ensure your efforts are not wasted and you can always work with communities near you to solve social problems.
Presented during Tshikululu's first Serious Social Investing workshop, which took place on 25 and 26 February 2010. Michael Norton OBE discusses social entrepreneurs and the ability of individuals to change the world.
Natural Connections - the story so far (July 2016v1.2)Tracy Lambert
This document provides a mid-project summary of the Natural Connections project, which aims to enhance green spaces in Cumbernauld, Scotland and connect both people and wildlife. It discusses how the project has engaged young people and the local community in environmental activities, conservation, and outdoor art projects. Over 45 young people and 38 volunteers have participated so far in restoring three wildlife sites. The project has helped build skills and confidence among young people and volunteers, and has engaged over 7,000 community members through public events.
If you’re looking to elevate your momentum in the fight against polio, this interactive session is for you. Join us as we explain how to create a "bottom-up district polio action plan,” which includes awareness campaigns, advocacy, fundraising, and hands-on work.
Intergenerational Housing: Making affordable housing a realityAlison Clyde
How can young and older people share homes together? Wohnbuddy are successfully matching younger and older people to share a home together. here they share their journey and experiences.
Young people can participate in volunteer services in three main ways. They can help the elderly in their community through activities that interact and support senior citizens. They can also help less fortunate people abroad through projects that provide aid and improve lives. Additionally, volunteering for activities that help the country directly or indirectly allows young people to give back and learn new skills while benefiting their homeland.
http://www.intensifyyouth.com - Our mission is to bring together a team of experts to engage, inspire and transform the lives of EVERY young person on this planet.
We've got MASSIVE goals, and a VERY clear vision.
Please share our vision and help us evoke global change.
http://www.intensifyyouth.com
Kudoz & the Fifth Space: activating resources inside and outside of the system.InWithForward
Kudoz & the Fifth Space are two prototypes that we are currently working on in the disability field in British Columbia, Canada. This slide deck is a short summary about what they are and why.
The document discusses building a movement to reconnect children with nature by creating nature clubs for families. It notes that children today spend less time outdoors than ever before. The benefits of connecting with nature include improved happiness, health, and academic performance. The Children & Nature Network aims to create a culture where all children have opportunities for direct experiences in nature. Their initiatives include the Natural Families Network to inspire the creation of neighborhood nature clubs, as well as providing online resources and a social networking platform to support clubs. The document highlights examples of existing nature clubs and their positive impacts on families and communities.
This document outlines plans for a community organizing event called #7days4stow to address pressures facing residents of Walthamstow in 2013. It identifies local projects that could help, such as food banks and job training. Example actions are provided, such as mapping loan sharks and recruiting volunteers to promote affordable credit. The document discusses coordinating small, low-risk tasks among volunteers to support these projects through activities like distributing flyers and creating referral networks. It aims to bring people together, identify community needs, and plan bite-sized volunteer actions to enact positive change at a local level.
The document is an annual report for Creative Minds, an initiative that promotes creative approaches to healthcare. It highlights some of the innovative projects Creative Minds has supported over the past year in local communities. These include art therapy for domestic abuse survivors, sensory playgroups for babies with physical needs, and a theatre company for adults with learning disabilities performing at major theatres. The report also outlines Creative Minds' plans to continue championing creative approaches, consolidate successful projects, and explore new opportunities and partnerships.
Slides from a presentation designed to help you map your community business on a page, whether established or just an idea. This supports the talk given by Power to Change at the Eden Project, as part of the Big Lunch Extras programme.
This document describes several agricultural techniques including direct seeding, hydroponics, hybridization, tissue culture, genetic engineering, crop rotation, and biological pest control. Direct seeding plants seeds directly into soil using machines. Hydroponics grows plants in nutrient solutions rather than soil. Hybridization breeds plants and animals to enhance desirable traits. Tissue culture generates new plants from parent plant cells in a sterile medium. Genetic engineering transfers beneficial genes between organisms. Crop rotation cultivates different crops in succession to maintain soil fertility without building up pest populations specific to certain crops. Biological pest control uses natural predators and parasites to control pests.
A detailed presentation on what is Heliophysics. It's the study of the sun and environment around it. Explaining some basic concepts regarding the same in a very interesting and innovative way.
GrandinRoad held a media event in New York City in 2015 to showcase their new visual designs and concepts. The event focused on introducing their design direction and plans to media attendees. It provided an opportunity for GrandinRoad to share their vision and gather feedback on upcoming visual designs and concepts.
The document argues that it is ignorant and pointless to claim that an entire music genre such as rap or metal "sucks". While musical tastes are subjective, genres contain a wide variety of styles and artists. Stereotypes that rap is only about money, drugs, and "bling" or that metal only features screaming and Satan worship are untrue and show a lack of understanding of the genres' diversity and artistic merit. The document aims to clear up common misconceptions about rap and metal through examples of intelligent rap lyrics and technical instrumental metal that requires skill.
Este documento presenta las especificaciones técnicas para el proyecto de construcción de gaviones en la ladera del río Subachoque en Cundinamarca. Incluye la construcción de 10 metros lineales de gavión a cada lado del jarillón para contención y un tratamiento de empradización en el jarillón de 2,50 metros de altura. También detalla las especificaciones de desmonte y limpieza, remoción de tocones, disposición de materiales y control ambiental para la ejecución del proyecto.
Sundar Pichai is the new CEO of Google. He was born in Chennai, India and grew up in a middle-class family. He received his engineering degree from IIT Kharagpur and later earned an MS from Stanford University and an MBA from Wharton School. Pichai joined Google in 2004 and led several major projects including the development of Chrome OS, Google Drive, Gmail, and Maps. He also oversaw the development of Android and was later made the head of Google's Android division. In 2015, Pichai was announced as the new CEO of Google after its restructuring into a new parent company called Alphabet.
Agricultural Logistics in Ukraine: Problems and investment needsEugene Tkachenko
Ukraine faces significant challenges and investment needs in its agricultural logistics sector. A 2015 World Bank study found insufficient capacity to handle future harvests and high present-day costs. Billions of dollars are needed to improve river logistics, railways, and storage facilities. Transportation of wheat by river and port has particularly high costs due to issues like non-transparent port fees, lack of river infrastructure maintenance, and restrictive regulations. Recommendations include reviewing port charges, liberalizing river access, and ensuring fumigation and phytosanitary standards comply only with destination country requirements.
A presentation demonstrating how communities can tackle loneliness. This supports the workshop given by Tracey Robbins as part of the Big Lunch Extras programme. Find out more about Big Lunch Extras at www.biglunchextras.com
Google has released an update to its Penguin algorithm called Penguin 2.0 that aims to crack down on websites using spammy techniques like unauthorized backlinks, duplicate content, and keyword stuffing to improve their search engine rankings. This update has negatively impacted many sites, including some travel, gaming, porn, and educational sites. Matt Cutts warned that Penguin 2.0 seems stricter than previous versions and will more strictly penalize websites using black hat SEO techniques. Google will now more closely inspect websites' content and on-page SEO to determine their true relevance and authority.
This document contains poems by several Polish students about signs of spring and what they love about the season. The poems describe longer, warmer days; snow melting; flowers and leaves blooming; birds singing and nesting; and bees buzzing as spring arrives after the cold winter months.
1. The document discusses the concept of "Ulyssean living" which refers to seniors who continue seeking new adventures and opportunities in their later years.
2. It provides statistics on the aging population in Canada, which is growing rapidly and becoming more diverse.
3. Common stereotypes about seniors are debunked, and challenges they face related to socializing, mental/physical abilities, and finances are outlined.
4. Practical suggestions are made for improving interactions with seniors, such as being patient and inclusive of their abilities in leisure activities.
El envejecimiento activo me parece un reto social que los políticos no están asumiendo con la importancia adecuada.
Europa o mi región - Asturias - son claros focos de envejecimiento acelerado de la población, y la sensación es de que parece que no se preveen lo que marcan las predicciones de las pirámides de población.
Desde la Innovación Social diferentes entidades Europeas además de analizar proponen acciones que vinculen la innovación y el desarrollo económico.
La gestión de la edad en las empresas es un reto que igualmente hay que manejar en los contextos empresariales como parte de las políticas de empleo
Comparto este informe de NESTA que es una referencia imprescindible
The document discusses how life expectancies are increasing by five hours per day and how this fundamental change challenges common assumptions about ageing and what it means to be "old." It argues that a new approach is needed to innovate and adapt our social institutions and create ways for people to help one another as populations age. Specifically, it calls for rebuilding social institutions to account for longer lifespans, harnessing opportunities of an aging society, and enabling people to age better through community support and social connections.
In March this year, Harbinger Consultants trialled an initiative in health promotion to raise awareness of dementia. The initiative sought to: raise money for dementia research through a sponsored 50km bike ride; and raise awareness of brain health and dementia through a BBQ breakfast event. Based on an action research approach, the idea of the Brainy Breakfast BBQ was to bring people together in a convivial environment to exchange information, share stories and generally catch up. This document reports on the event and provides recommendations for ongoing development of this initiative.
The document discusses ADD International's work to promote independence, equality and opportunity for disabled people living in poverty. It focuses on four key areas: inclusive education, economic empowerment, access to services, and equality for women and girls. ADD International supports over 127 disability rights organizations globally through capacity building and influencing policies. Their goal is to empower disabled activists and strengthen the disability rights movement.
We have launched our new winter insight report, “Rip it up and start again” to inspire businesses to think differently about how to create change 2014. It’s full of provocations, ideas and inspiring examples of businesses bringing their energy, flair and innovation to bear on a range of issues from an ageing population through to reducing wasteful consumption. So as the winter days darken, here’s something to shine a light on what your business could do differently next year.
This document outlines a vision for expanding dementia-friendly initiatives in the United States and globally. It discusses the need for greater awareness and education about younger-onset Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The document proposes a multi-media public awareness campaign featuring younger individuals to challenge misconceptions that only older adults are affected. It also stresses the importance of using the inclusive term "dementia" rather than just "Alzheimer's." The vision includes making communities, hospitals, businesses and other organizations more dementia-friendly through universal symbols, technology, staff training and policy changes. Building broad coalitions is seen as key to implementing these initiatives on a large scale.
Dementia innovation laura hill presentation - open forum eventsAlexis May
This document discusses the benefits of social integration and capital for health and well-being. It notes that social relationships and activity can reduce the risk of early death by 50%, protect against dementia, and reduce fatal heart attacks. The document then discusses Crawley Dementia Alliance's vision to make Crawley a dementia-friendly town that supports those with dementia and their families. It outlines some of the Alliance's community programs and assets that bring generations together and give those with dementia a voice.
Libraries and the Campaign to End LonelinessCILIPScotland
1) Loneliness is a subjective feeling of lack of social connections, while social isolation is an objective measure of number of social interactions. An estimated 4 million older people in the UK experience chronic loneliness.
2) Loneliness has significant health impacts, increasing the risk of conditions like high blood pressure, stroke, and cognitive decline. Its impact on mortality is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day for those who live alone and lack social connections.
3) Effective interventions for loneliness include group-based activities targeted at specific groups, with a shared interest or educational focus, and that involve older people in running the groups. Libraries can help combat loneliness by hosting such groups and events.
This document summarizes key facts about aging, mental health, and health care disparities among minority populations:
- Minorities will be the fastest growing elderly population but face greater barriers to accessing mental health services and higher risks of diseases like Alzheimer's and vascular dementia.
- Barriers include lack of knowledge about dementia, cultural beliefs that view it as normal aging, difficulty navigating the healthcare system, and mistrust of formal care.
- To address disparities, providers should develop cultural competence, communicate effectively with caregivers, provide education tailored to different cultures, and encourage research participation among minorities. Developing an understanding of diverse cultural and linguistic needs is important.
LiveWorkPlay (With Notes) Presentation To YAI Conference 2013LiveWorkPlay
YAI Conference 2013 - Session 25 Community Inclusion: Keenan Wellar MA and Julie Kingstone MEd. From social programs to social change: building a welcoming community. Over a period of 4 years, the LiveWorkPlay organization engaged in a successful process of ‘de-programming’ by making a shift from congregated programs to authentic community-based.
Dementia friendly communities - my talk this eveningshibley
This is the talk I gave on dementia friendly communities this evening at BPP Law School. It is part of a public lecture series for raising awareness about English dementia policy for the general public. The lectures are provided completely free of charge.
Presence To Contribution: A Welcoming Community For People With Intellectual ...LiveWorkPlay
This presentation formed the basis of a webinar delivered through the Community Networks of Specialized Care. The presenter is Keenan Wellar, co-leader and director of communications at LiveWorkPlay in Ottawa. Attending directly and remotely were representatives from about 20 organizations across Ontario.
From 2008-2010, the LiveWorkPlay charitable organization in Ottawa engaged in a successful process of "de-programming" by completing a shift from congregated programs to authentic community-based supports and outcomes based on flexible and individualized person-centered planning. They have been living this new way of being for the past three years and will share what they have learned, with a particular focus on life-changing outcomes for individuals who have an intellectual disability, as well as a "social capital" approach to partnerships with citizens and organizations in support of a more inclusive community.
Corporate Social Responsibility and People with DisabilitiesOmid Omidvar
Constituting the biggest minority on the planet, people with disabilities (PWD), endure many trials and tribulations including prejudice in the workplace, discomfort in using public transportation, fallacious preconceptions, lack of representativeness, etc.
How to engage the potentiality of PWD in economic development, social engagement and environmental integrity
The role of companies
The role of government (Social Responsibility of the State)
The role of Civil Society Organizations
This document summarizes the key points from an inaugural conference on engaging ageing. It discusses maintaining functional ability and intrinsic capacity across the lifespan. This includes supporting behaviors that enhance capacity, ensuring dignified aging, and aligning health systems to meet the needs of older populations. The goals are to foster healthy aging in all countries by creating age-friendly environments, developing long-term care systems, and improving understanding of aging trajectories and needs.
This document discusses the need for and issues faced in old age homes. It begins by acknowledging those who helped with the project on old age homes. It then provides definitions of nursing homes and retirement homes. The document outlines the aims and objectives of old age homes, which include assisting and caring for the elderly. It discusses the need for old age homes due to changes in the family system and women entering the workforce. Finally, it describes some common physiological, psychological, emotional, social, and financial problems faced by elderly persons.
This document discusses issues related to aging populations around the world. It notes rising percentages of older adults, especially in China, and challenges related to housing, finances, employment, care, and inclusion of older individuals. Key assumptions highlighted include reliance on families for long-term care in the US, the need to work longer with increased lifespans in Germany, and the potential for social innovation to combat perceptions of older adults as a burden and promote intergenerational connections. Questions are posed about measuring success and the potential for social innovations to drive global change by dealing powerful blows to myths about older people.
Supporting vulnerable families to prevent children being taken into careFEANTSA
Presentation given by Dann Kenningham, ATD Fourth World (U.K.) at the 2013 FEANTSA conference, "Investing in young people to prevent a lost generation: policy and practice in addressing youth homelessness"
http://feantsa.org/spip.php?article1596&lang=en
Similar to An Eden Project Field Guide to working with older people (20)
The document discusses what makes a child-friendly community. It notes that urban design, architecture, and planning play essential roles in ensuring a sustainable environment for children. If cities and towns are badly planned, children are often the first to suffer negative consequences. The document explores different approaches to defining what constitutes a child-friendly community such as considering children's play needs and comparing the differences between child and adult perspectives.
- Establishing a community group safely and legally requires considering legal structure, compliance with relevant legislation, and ensuring safety of volunteers and participants.
- There are many types of legal structures for community groups, from informal to formal. Fact sheets can help determine the best initial structure.
- Compliance involves health and safety, safeguarding, data protection, equality and diversity, and activity-specific rules. Getting public liability insurance is also essential.
- The Royal Voluntary Service can provide guidance, support establishing a group, seed funding, and helping the group become a branch volunteer program. Other charities also offer resources and support for new community groups.
Community businesses in England generate over £1 billion annually for local communities, employ over 36,000 people, and hold £2.1 billion in assets while being run by and for the benefit of the local community rather than for private profit. The document provides an overview of what community businesses are and offers guidance on determining if an idea could be a community business, developing a community business plan, and identifying resources for support.
Unlocking your community potential with digital
- By Steve Haines – Neighbourly
The pace of technology is moving fast and there are endless opportunities to use it to help connect people, gain new sources of support and resources, and tell your story to engage supporters. But small charities and community groups are often benefiting least from these opportunities. This workshop will showcase the best of these technologies, draw together case studies, helpful advice and tips, and help you get the most out of these new tools to deliver greater impact.
- By Phil Waters – I Love Nature
In this workshop you’ll learn how to create playful and physically active adventures using only string and rope. Enlisted as special agents on a mission of a peculiar kind, you’ll learn how to create temporary playgrounds and experiences on a budget with simple and accessible resources.
The document discusses what makes a child-friendly community. It notes that well-planned urban design, architecture, and land development that incorporate green spaces are important for children. A child-friendly community also allows for play and considers a child's perspective separate from an adult perspective. The document is a presentation on factors to consider for creating communities that are suitable for children.
- By Heather Thomas
This interactive workshop is structured so that you walk away with a rough plan to meet your funding needs. We’ll explore how your organisational strategy impacts your funding outlook, how to pitch your project to specific audiences, how to identify prospective donors and potential sources of funding.
This document discusses creating change through community activism. It emphasizes negotiating with all parties, maintaining funding and support networks, and making change fun and optimistic. The document also notes that sustainable development impacts every aspect of life, including environment, resources, and quality of life. Achieving sustainability requires minimizing individual and organizational impacts.
Community Food Projects
Maria Devereaux – Sustain
Growing, making, selling sharing. Why set up a community food project and what’s best for your neighbourhood.
What happens when you put business in Community hands?EdenProjectWebTeam
Power to Change provides support and funding to help community businesses across England that are run by and for local people. This includes a Bright Ideas Fund for new community business ideas, support to transform local pubs into community hubs, and access to research, networking, training, and social investment advice. Their aim is to create better places through community business by empowering local communities and meeting local needs through locally-owned enterprises.
The document appears to be a series of tweets from Eden Communities and Big Lunch Extra promoting the hashtags #CommunityCamp and #SepBLE. It contains over a dozen repeated tweets encouraging participation in conversations around community and joining events using those hashtags.
Phil Waters
Exploring risk in play and what makes a child friendly community. Urban design, architecture, landscape architecture, planning and land development play essential roles in ensuring a sustainable physical and built environment.
The document contains tweets from the @edencommunities Twitter account about their #CommunityCamp event along with the #CommunityCamp and #SepBLE hashtags. The tweets encourage participation in and spread information about the Eden Communities community event through the use of hashtags to join the online conversation.
- Juliet Rose - Eden Communities -
A practical and playful session to explore how we can
creatively engage with people in thinking about the future
of the places where we live. This session will involve small
group activity - designing, making, chit chat and cake
- Anne-Marie Culhane, Artist and community activist -
Be inspired by award-winning projects that engage
communities creatively and explore how similar projects
could work in your communities.
A presentation about the power of community celebrations, supporting the talk given by Sue Hill at the Eden Project, as part of the Big Lunch Extras programme. Born and raised in Cornwall, Sue has travelled the world, making theatre in unlikely places with Kneehigh and WildWorks, from Cyprus to Kensington Palace, via Soweto. With her brother, Pete Hill, she has made many large scale earth sculptures including the Mudmaid and Giant at Heligan and Eve at Eden. Find out more about Big Lunch Extras at www.biglunchextras.com
Facing the fear of finding funding and doing it anyway! My story so far…EdenProjectWebTeam
Pearls of wisdom on getting your community project funded, from Ann Osborn, Director of The Rural Coffee Caravan Information Project, which delivers information and friendship across Suffolk through an innovative mobile unit. This workshop was given at the Big Lunch Extras event in Wolverton in October 2015. Find out more about Big Lunch Extras at www.biglunchextras.com, and about the Coffee Caravan at www.ruralcoffeecaravan.org.uk.
Be inspired by community cinema groups across the country; play around with your own ideas of what a perfect cinema night would be; find out the steps you need to take and what support is available, to help make the magical world of cinema a reality for your local community. This presentation was given by Deborah Park, of Cinema For All, at the Big Lunch Extras community camp at the Eden Project in July 2015.
Disampaikan pada FGD Kepmen Pertahanan tentang Organisasi Profesi JF Analis Pertahanan Negara
Jakarta, 20 Juni 2024
Dr. Tri Widodo W. Utomo, SH. MA.
Deputi Bidang Kajian Kebijakan dan Inovasi Administrasi Negara LAN RI
Presentation by Julie Topoleski, CBO’s Director of Labor, Income Security, and Long-Term Analysis, at the 16th Annual Meeting of the OECD Working Party of Parliamentary Budget Officials and Independent Fiscal Institutions.
The Power of Community Newsletters: A Case Study from Wolverton and Greenleys...Scribe
YOU WILL DISCOVER:
The engaging history and evolution of Wolverton and Greenleys Town Council's newsletter
Strategies for producing a successful community newsletter and generating income through advertising
The decision-making process behind moving newsletter design from in-house to outsourcing and its impacts
Dive into the success story of Wolverton and Greenleys Town Council's newsletter in this insightful webinar. Hear from Mandy Shipp and Jemma English about the newsletter's journey from its inception to becoming a vital part of their community's communication, including its history, production process, and revenue generation through advertising. Discover the reasons behind outsourcing its design and the benefits this brought. Ideal for anyone involved in community engagement or interested in starting their own newsletter.
Jennifer Schaus and Associates hosts a complimentary webinar series on The FAR in 2024. Join the webinars on Wednesdays and Fridays at noon, eastern.
Recordings are on YouTube and the company website.
https://www.youtube.com/@jenniferschaus/videos
4. Foreword
Eden is an educational charity. One of its aims is to connect
people with each other and their communities. If we are serious
about creating sustainable communities we need to take the
time to understand and respect the experience of older people
in order that we don’t lose vital knowledge that could be passed
on to future generations.
However, isolation and loneliness is a huge issue of our time. It
is unacceptable that in every street there is someone who feels
excluded. We need to break down isolation brick by brick and
create opportunities that value the contribution older people
can make to our society and keep them engaged in the present
and thinking about the future.
We have chosen to work with the Sensory Trust on this guide
as they have a wealth of experience working with older people
and are keen champions of the rewards that this can bring to
people developing community projects on the ground.
The Eden Team.
4
5. Contents
Introduction 6
Why involve older people? 10
Myths and misconceptions 14
Disability heath and wellbeing 22
Involving older people 36
Intergenerational activity 46
Making the most of older people’s skills and
knowledge 52
Conclusion 58
Further reading and resources 62
References 63
5
8. The UK has an ageing population. There are more people
over 65 than there are people under 16, a trend that is likely
to continue as ‘baby boomers’ reach retirement age. What
impact is this having on our communities? How does this
affect community projects? What role can they play?
An ageing population obviously has its issues. The number of
people being diagnosed with dementia is increasing, and the
physical and sensory impairments that come with ageing -
mobility issues, hearing loss and reduced vision – are having
widespread effects as people are living longer and staying
longer in their homes and their communities.
The impact of an ageing
population
Hopefully you’re reading this field guide because you want
to involve older people in your project; you may already
have realised that they can have a beneficial impact on the
community and enhance community activity. Having the
opportunity to share their skills means more than just doing
good for the community; it’s good for someone’s health and
wellbeing too. Your project could provide more opportunities
for older people to get out and about, meet new people, learn
new skills, gain more confidence and knowledge and feel more
valued in their community.
8
9. Loneliness and isolation
Five per cent of the 55-64 age group, 13% of 65-74 group and 23% of the
over-75s live alone and do not see or speak with someone every day.
Nearly 2.5 million people over 75 live alone. 1.8 million of them are women.
The over-65s are estimated to spend an average of 80% of their time at
home. For the over that rises to 90%.
Misconceptions and stereotypes associated with the older
generation
Factors that prevent older people being active in their
communities and some possible solutions
The benefits of involving older people in community projects
Creative ideas
Examples of inspiring projects
This guide will cover:
9
11. Why involve
older people?
Older people make up around a fifth of the
population, have developed a lifetime of skills and
knowledge, often have time on their hands, and
are keen to do voluntary work...why not get them
involved?
11
12. Older people are good
for your project
Talk to old people – they know things you don’t
Older people know about all sorts of things; they might have
practical skills such as carpentry, gardening and crafts; or know
ways to make money stretch further. They can have a wealth of
local knowledge about people and places.
Time
Many older people have spare time, something other sections of a
community often don’t. But don’t assume they’re not already busy
or that their time has no value.
Much of the talk about our ageing population refers to the
pressure on health and social services. However, older people
have a considerable amount of knowledge and experience that
could be of value to their community.
12
13. Your project is good
for them
Talk to old people – it might be their only conversation today
Social isolation is an issue that affects many older people. It can
feel lonely living in a street where you are the only person not
out working or at school during the day. It’s not uncommon for
some older people to go for two or three days without speaking
to anyone. Current government priorities are to encourage people
to stay at home longer, putting off the move into assisted or
residential care. This increases the risk of older people becoming
isolated – even the once-regular visits by the postman and
milkman are becoming less frequent.
Funding
If you’re looking for funding for your project then showing
potential funders that you’ve engaged people of all ages in the
developmental stages is crucial. Not only will it help you with
your funding applications, but you will reap the benefits of getting
everyone involved from the beginning. So arm yourself with some
facts and figures.
13
15. Myths and
misconceptions
It’s easy to put people in boxes and make
assumptions about what they are capable or
incapable of. One thing’s for sure, older people
are full of surprises.
15
16. The problem of putting
people in boxes
Myth: older people are grumpy
The Guardian recently quoted a study that suggested that people
are happiest in their younger and older years.
Myth: older people are slow and frail
So who is an older person? A six-year-old might say a
33-year-old is ancient, a 70-year-old might tell you old
age begins at 80. Age UK support people over 60, whereas
SAGA’s target audience is 50 plus (although we wouldn’t
necessarily advise referring to 50-year-olds as old). For
some, it’s those of retirement age and over and don’t forget
the old adage: ‘You’re only as old as you feel’! As with other
age groups, it’s easy to stereotype older people. They are
often depicted as frail, grumpy, slow, and forgetful; the truth
is those words can be used to describe people of all ages.
Retired dentist Charles Eugster set a new age-related World
Record in March 2015 when he ran the indoor 200m in 55.48
seconds...at the age of 95.
Johanna Quaas rediscovered her love of gymnastics in her 50s and
still performs an amazing and energetic parallel bars routine at 89.
Senior playgrounds and outdoor gyms (Hyde Park, London;
Blackley Park, Manchester; Shaw Park, Hull to name a few) are
popping up all over the country due to interest and high costs
of indoor gyms. They are enabling older people to maintain their
physical health and social interaction. The ‘Green Gym’ appeals
to many older people as it combines being outdoors and doing
something good for the environment with keeping fit and healthy.
16
18. A few headline facts and figures
There are now nearly 14.7 million people in the UK aged 60 and above.
4.9 million people over 65 in England take part in volunteering or civic
engagement (52%).
Nearly 1.4 million people over 65 in England and Wales provide unpaid care for
a partner, family, or others.
3.8 million people over 65 live alone. 70% of these people are women.
About 6.4 million people over 65 have some form of hearing loss.
Myth: older people are forgetful
A piece in the Telegraph reflected on the findings of a study in 2014
which suggested that older people aren’t necessarily forgetful,
they simply know so much it takes them longer to recall things.
Myth: older people are inactive
Around half the people over 65 in the UK currently get involved in
volunteering, for example becoming a part of a befriending service
or volunteer driving or some form of civic engagement such as
sitting on the Parish Council or joining a local Lions or Rotary Club.
Nearly 4.9 million people aged 65 and over in England (58%) take
part in volunteering or civic engagement.
For older people, stereotyping in its most extreme cases can
lead to ageism, a form of discrimination, with people making an
assumption that an activity or event isn’t appropriate for older
people simply based on their age, not on their wants, needs,
or ability. The Equality Act of 2010 is the most recent piece of
legislation that covers discrimination. Ageism can have an adverse
effect on older people’s health and wellbeing but inclusive
community projects provide the opportunity for intergenerational
activities that can help dispel the myths around ageing.
18
19. The Equality Act
The 2010 Equality Act brought togetherexisting discrimination legislation. The lawmakes it illegal to discriminate in relation tonine ‘protected characteristics’ including age.The other characteristics are disability, genderreassignment, marriage and civil partnership,pregnancy and maternity, race, religion andbelief, sex and sexual orientation. Remember,age is a characteristic everyone has, regardlessof gender, sexuality, cultural background,ethnicity, religious belief.
Some older people are from Black, Asian,and minority ethnic (BAME) groups (8% ofpeople in England over 60 are from BAMEgroups). Some older people are lesbian, gay orbisexual (estimated to be between 600,000and 840,000). Many are grandparents (14million). The message is simply not to makeassumptions about who an older person is butto take the time to find out about older peoplein your community.
19
20. 20
Eden Walking Group
Begun a decade ago, the Eden Walking Group
provides local people suffering from a range of
respiratory diseases with the opportunity to
exercise in a safe and controlled environment.
Made up predominantly of people over retirement
age, the Walking Group meets every week at the
Eden Project. The evidence shows that participants
are not only able to manage their conditions
more effectively, they have seen their health and
confidence improve. The Eden Walking Group also
provides a sense of camaraderie and created an
informal network for people with conditions that
might otherwise limit their ability to get out and
enjoy themselves.
23. As we get older poor health and disability can become
more commonplace, but with a bit of thought and a
positive attitude your project can help older people
can be active, useful and engaged in community life.
Disability, health
and wellbeing
23
24. It is important to remember that age itself is not a
disability. It is simply that many illnesses and impairments,
physical and sensory, become more common as we get
older.
Disabilities and poor health can make it more difficult for some
older people to remain active in their community and could mean
that you need to make some changes to the way you plan or run
your project. Sensory impairment for example could mean that
you need to think about communication and information design.
A recent Ipsos MORI survey found that 13% of people over current
retirement age had a visual impairment, and about 6.4 million
people over 65 have some form of hearing loss; so you should
consider acoustics if your project involves a community building or
if you are planning an event or meeting.
Disabilities, poor health
& dementia
24
25. Dementia Facts
Dementia
Dementia is very much in the media, often in shocking stories
relating to residential care. However, there are thousands of
people living with dementia at home in their community, people
who may have been recently diagnosed and are in the early stages
of the disease. Dementia does not discriminate; it is just as likely
to affect someone who has always been an active community
member as anyone else. Young-onset dementia can affect people
as young as 30.
With dementia on the increase it’s likely that you’ll meet people
who have been diagnosed with a form of dementia at some
point during your project. It affects not just those diagnosed but
their families, friends, neighbours and has an impact on the wider
community.
Make an effort to ensure your project is dementia-friendly by
helping to spread understanding and reducing stigma associated
with the disease. It will enable more individuals and importantly
their families and carers to remain active in their communities.
There are an estimated 820,000 people living with dementia in the UK.
A 2014 survey of 1,000 people with dementia found that:
Less than half feel part of their community
40% have felt lonely recently
Only 47% said that their carer received any help in caring for them
72% are living with another medical condition or disability as well as dementia
Just over half of people say that they are living well with dementia
Almost 1 in 10 only leave the house once a month.
25
26. 26
Creative Spaces
Since 2009, the Creative Spaces project has been using
nature-based outdoor activities to help older people living
with dementia to reconnect with people and places in their
communities. The project began by supporting dementia care
in residential settings, demonstrating to staff and management
how their gardens and activities could support care work and
enable the residents to engage with others in the community.
Intergenerational activities allowed young people to increase
their understanding of dementia and activities in general helped
community members to dispel misunderstandings associated
with the disease. Creative Spaces now supports people living at
home as well. Outdoor interests such as walking are combined
with conversation, nature interests (not to mention tea and
cake!) and animation to help give people with dementia a voice.
www.sensorytrust.org.uk
28. Dementia is an ‘umbrella’ word under which sit numerous
forms of dementia. Alzheimer’s is one; vascular dementia
and dementia with Lewy bodies are two more amongst
many others.
One thing to remember is that no two people diagnosed
with dementia will experience the disease in the same way
and it is possible to have more than one type of dementia,
but these are the most common forms of dementia and
their symptoms:
Types of dementia
Alzheimer’s disease
Associated with memory loss and difficulties with problem-solving
and language.
Vascular dementia
Occurs when blood is prevented from getting to the brain. People
experience problems with decision-making, concentration, or
following a series of steps e.g. cooking.
Dementia with Lewy bodies
Symptoms similar to both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease -
poor attention/alertness, visual hallucinations, movement/balance
problems.
28
30. There are some common dos and don’ts which can help you
work well with someone with dementia so that you both
benefit from their involvement.
Working with people
with dementia
DO:
Ensure that the person or group will be supported by a
carer(s), family member(s) or friend(s).
Make it clear to the carer(s) that it’s really important for the
individual to have as much input as they want. It’s easy for
carers to slip into a leading role as they’re used to caring for
someone but in your project they are taking a supporting role
and allowing the individual they are caring for to make their
own choices and work at a level and pace that’s comfortable
for them.
Spend time finding out what they would like to contribute to
the project and how you can help them do that. Make them
feel part of the community and that their contribution is
valued.
Give the person with dementia the opportunity to work
with other people besides their carers. It helps increase their
social connections and levels of enjoyment through meeting
new people.
30
31. DON’T:
Assume that because someone has dementia they can’t
contribute to your project; their short-term memory may
have gone but long-term skills and knowledge will be
retained.
Ignore the individual and talk solely to their companion.
Talk with the individual – and if they have reduced verbal
skills then their companion will most likely be able to tell
you what they are communicating – but there’s nothing
worse than feeling ignored.
Put yourself in the role of carer; it is easy to do when we
want to help people but unless you’re qualified as a care
worker, it could lead to some difficult or uncomfortable
situations.
Correct a person if you believe or know that what they say
isn’t true; your world-view is not necessarily theirs.
31
32. Working with older carers
Nearly 1.4 million people over 65 in England and
Wales provide 50 or more hours of informal,
unpaid care each week. The majority of these
carers are women. Family carers don’t often see
themselves as carers and may have struggled or
coped for years.
People who, for whatever reason, are caring
for a loved one at home often find it difficult
to get involved in community events without
care support, namely someone to come in and
provide support and care whilst they go out. Or
as a couple, they may want to go together and
might require help with getting there and back.
A sensitive approach to finding out their needs is
best; a tactful offer of help rather than assuming
it’s fine to whip their partner off in a wheelchair
is more respectful.
Providing older carers with as much information
on the support that is available within your
project (e.g. volunteer helpers, quiet areas for rest
etc.) enables them to feel in control of their own
choices. Events themselves can be disappointing
if there’s no option for them to either participate
in an activity together or, as if often more
important for the carer, the opportunity to spend
a little time involved in different activities, having
conversations with other people.
32
34. As we age, we start to face barriers that can prevent us from
being active community members. Often these barriers relate
to the physical and sensory impairments associated with
old age. These barriers can have an impact on others in our
communities, such as people with disabilities, and can be
grouped.
Accessibility
Physical
Things that can prevent older people from actually getting to an
event, or activity, or attending a meeting. This could include steps
to a building, a lack of accessible toilet facilities, nowhere to sit, or
nowhere to park nearby. High kerbs, steps, uneven paving etc., can
create problems for people using wheelchairs or walking frames.
Regular and reliable public transport could be an issue for older
people in your community. Many older people rely on public
transport to get out and about, especially those who can’t afford
to run a car, don’t have a driving licence, or have had it revoked for
health reasons. This can be even more of an issue in rural areas
where limited services operate.
Intellectual
These are things that might prevent people from finding out in
the first place or being able to contribute or participate. This could
include information that is hard to follow or a design which is
difficult to read for someone with a visual impairment, for example.
Too much information, small text or poor contrast between the
background and text can put people off even trying to read it.
Things which could deter people from participating in something
because they feel it is somehow ‘not for them’. This could include
posters and leaflets that don’t include images of older people, or a
venue which is associated with a particular group, such as a youth
Comfort and cultural
34
35. centre. Other people’s preconceptions about what older people
can and can’t do excludes many of them from engaging actively in
community life. Remember, the older generation have grown up
through the post-war years; some were ‘teenagers’ in the 1950s
(before that young people didn’t have their own music or fashion
styles). They lived through the changing social attitudes of the ‘60s
and the 3–day working week and industrial strikes of the ‘70s. They
are often ready and up for anything!
Economic
Lack of disposable income can mean that some people can’t afford
to pay for public transport or run a car. It’s well known that living on
a pension can be hard. Many older people struggle to pay bills, heat
their homes, buy nutritious food etc., so it stands to reason that this
also has an impact on their social lives.
The most successful projects are those that engage community
members of all generations and backgrounds through the whole
process from beginning to end. This leads to more sustainable
projects. Whether you have an idea for a new project or a way of
engaging them in a current project, involve older people from the
outset.
35
37. Involving older
people
Older people aren’t just potential beneficiaries
of your project, they have knowledge,
experience and useful connections that can
make a real difference to your project.
37
38. As discussed earlier, as people get older there is a risk of them
becoming more isolated, spending more time at home and
taking part in fewer community-based social activities. This
can often lead to them being labelled as being ‘hard-to-reach’
along with other groups in society. But don’t assume that all
old people are at home alone — some may already be actively
participating and volunteering in the community.
There will be different levels of involvement for older members
of the community, whatever the project, and there will be
various times when you should think about how inclusive your
activities should be.
There are four main levels of involvement:
Informing – telling older people what you are doing and why it applies
to them.
Consulting – talking to older people about the project, getting their
views and opinions.
Participating – older people taking part in the activities you are
planning for your project.
Volunteering – enabling older people to take part in the delivery of
the activities your project is planning. Encouraging older people to be
a part of the planning and organisation of the project, as a committee
member for example.
Different levels of
involvement
38
40. Use a range of appropriate forms of communication to access
older people living at home. Local media – radio, newspapers
(including the free ones), leaflet drops through letter boxes,
flyers in shop windows and around local businesses or the
library.
Be aware that doctors’ surgeries get inundated with requests to put
information in their waiting rooms and many are reluctant to take
flyers, but it’s always worth making a polite request, particularly if your
activity or event is health-based, or gives people an opportunity for
meaningful activity or physical exercise such as gardening or walking.
Word of mouth recommendations are often more encouraging
than any flashy promotional material; so get all your friends, family,
neighbours etc., to spread the word around.
Local businesses which offer OAP specials on certain days, for example
hairdressers, chemists, cafes and pubs, will already have regular
contact with older people and might be willing to help get the word
out.
Then there are the larger organisations that support older people; for
example Age UK, SAGA and U3A (University of the Third Age) run day
and activity clubs in most areas in the UK (see below for more details).
A quick phone call, a 10-minute chat to a group throwing all your
enthusiasm at them and you might be rewarded with their support.
Don’t forget to contact local disability and minority ethnic groups.
Local authorities have lists of local community and voluntary
organisations. You can access this on their website or ring them for a
hard copy.
Small independent groups often put information in shop windows
and at the post office to attract local attention so scout around next
time you pop in. There’s likely to be a ‘knit and natter’ group or a local
historical society in the area.
Informing
40
41. Good care homes are often on the look-out for somewhere to take
their more mobile residents so don’t dismiss them as being full
of people who can’t go out. It might only be one or two that turn
up but you will have given them a great day out and if they enjoy
themselves then the home manager is likely to organise for them to
participate again.
Memory or dementia cafes, Age UK day centres, and local care
homes are useful contacts if you want to involve people with
dementia in your project.
Pharmacies and local cafes are good locations to put flyers about
dementia-friendly events or projects. Think about places where
carers and those they care for are likely to visit on a regular basis.
Consider promoting your event as ‘dementia-friendly’. Local radio
stations sometimes broadcast health programmes and are often
popular with older people living at home, particularly if the topic is
relevant. So get yourself - or someone else involved in your project
– on for a 10-minute chat!
41
42. Using creative methods to engage with people can be a more
productive way to gather ideas and inspiration than getting
everyone around a table to asking direct questions such as ‘Do
you want…?’ or ‘Do you like…?’
Creative activities stimulate people’s minds. At school and work we
use our brains all the time. Older people still want to use their brains;
remember that common saying – ‘use it or lose it’? You can help older
people to keep those grey cells ticking over by using creative methods
to engage them in helping you to plan your project. It’s proven that
creativity keeps the mind active, so think about ways in which you
can engage older people so that they help you get the best out of the
project’s development stage. Using creative techniques such as art
and music, even outdoor interests such as making wildlife habitats or
willow-weaving, helps give older people a voice.
Community meetings are not feared by those who have the
confidence to voice their opinions but some people find them daunting
or pointless because they think: ‘Who’s going to listen to me? No one’s
going to think my idea is a good one!’ Creative sessions feel safe and
fun, they relax people, and for older people it is a way of engaging
with others socially. It creates a sense of equality and people are more
likely to share ideas and concerns in a relaxed atmosphere whilst their
attention is focused on doing something.
Consulting
42
43. Let them eat cake
Make sure you have plenty of refreshments and mention them in your
promotion. Tea and cake are always a great incentive to come, and a brilliant
ice-breaker.
Just drop in
‘Drop-in’ sessions can be useful in that people don’t feel they have to commit
to a specific time and that perhaps a casual glance around the door on the
way to the shops would let them see if there are a lot or just a few people.
Drop-ins also give an older person the chance to chat with someone and you
may be the only person they’ve spoken to that day or, sadly, all week. So be
flexible with your timing if you decide to host a ‘drop-in’. It’s also a chance to
get some of those flyers and other information out about your project, asking
people who drop in if they wouldn’t mind popping a few in the post office or
down the local pub.
43
44. So you’ve got the word out and you’ve had some interest from
older people in the community. Now’s the time to engage
them in your project so that they have a great experience, tell
everyone else about it and if appropriate, come back again.
Older people like to be around people of other generations too. Family
events are great because they can spend quality time with their
families. For those without family nearby, it’s a chance to be around
younger people and to experience that connection again.
Rather than start by trying to determine what makes an event or
occasion enjoyable for older people, or create activities aimed
specifically at older people, think about how you can make your
planned activities more age-friendly. When designing activities, events
or projects for your community ensure older people are included in
the same way that you would young families, or teenagers.
Plan activities in which they can engage in with others (not a separate
table for ‘older people’s activities’!); plenty of comfy seating for those
short rests; refreshments; good lighting so that they can see what’s
available; clear signage on activities, toilets etc. And don’t forget the
‘welcome’ factor. Is the entrance to the event clearly marked? Does it
look appealing to older people? Are there smiling faces to welcome
them?
At the end you want to find out if people have had a good time and
would come back again. Having some simple way to evaluate people’s
experiences will encourage them to tell you. Too many questions on a
large sheet of paper can be off-putting, but something as simple as a
pebble or coloured counter in a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ bucket is more appealing.
Use this opportunity to find out if anyone would like to get actively
involved in future projects.
Participating
44
45. Many older people already volunteer in their communities
and might be willing to help you out with your project.
A good place to find them are the organisations through which
older people often volunteer such as Rotary; Lions clubs; Women’s
Institutes and the Soroptimists. You can also use your local
volunteer centre to find volunteers of all ages. Local branches of
these organisations will be full of people with local knowledge and
contacts. They could well be a source of volunteers for your project
and possibly even small amounts of funding. Community Service
Volunteers run a programme called the RSVP, or Retired Senior
Volunteers Programme, which is aimed at encouraging people over
the age of 50 to volunteer in their communities.
Volunteering
Rotary www.rotary.org
Lions clubs www.lionsclubs.co
Women’s Institute www.thewi.org.uk
Soroptimists www.soroptimistinternational.org
Volunteer Centres www.ncvo.org.uk/ncvo-volunteering/find-a-volunteer-centre
RSVP, (Retired Senior Volunteers Programme) www.csv-rsvp.org.uk
University of the Third Age (U3A) www.u3a.org.uk
Useful links
45
47. Intergenerational
activity
Projects that bring generations together keeps old
people young and helps young people grow, sharing
skills, knowledge, experiences, stories, and culture.
47
48. Sessions with each group individually can help people to feel
more comfortable before bringing them together for the first time,
particularly if your participants are individuals from the community
rather than an established group, e.g. a youth group or an Age UK group.
Both younger and older people will benefit from having time to bond
with others from their own generation initially. It also makes it easier
for you to get them together as they’ll feel more comfortable knowing
that they will have already met some of the people who attend the first
full intergenerational meeting.
One way to engage people across generations is to use an activity that
enables older people to share their skills and knowledge with young
people. But the opposite is just as effective.
Many successful intergenerational activities or projects use modern
technology as a tool to bring the two generations together. Technology
has become increasingly accessible with digital cameras and tablets
and this has opened up opportunities for young people to demonstrate
their knowledge to the older generation. Recent concepts such as
selfies and short videos are being introduced to older people who are
fully engaging with what for many will be a new way to do something
they did years ago with older technology.
Sports and games are other useful cross-generational activities. The
two generations can enjoy sharing their stories around their favourite
sports or get physical and share a game. Memorabilia is something
useful that older people can share with young people; showing them
Engaging across
generations
It is easier to bring young and older people together by doing
some foundation work first.
Technology
Sports and games
48
49. the older styles of sportswear (remember those fashionable knee-
length football shorts of the 60s?). How about theming an activity
around ‘New Versus Old’? Each generation can share its knowledge of
a modern or older game and then get the group into mixed-age teams
to play a game of each and see who wins. Or find a sport/game that
has spanned the generations; explore aspects of it that have altered
and those that have remained the same.
Music can bridge generation gaps. Exploring what music means
to people can bring out common interests between the two
generations; it doesn’t have to be about the content of the music but
the impression it leaves on people and any music from any generation
can make us feel happy, sad, energetic, bored etc. You’ll quickly find an
activity where people play music that represents different emotions
(you may need to dust off that old turntable that’s been in your attic
for 20 years) and will trigger conversations about why that happens.
From that comes shared experience and mutual understanding.
An intergenerational cooking workshop could enable older people to
pass on the recipes that they were taught to younger people, as well
as providing an opportunity for them to learn some new recipes from
others. Cooking together could stimulate conversation about nutrition,
how to make meals on a budget, where food comes from or how it’s
grown. It could even lead to a community cafe project.
The Centre for Intergenerational Practice has a website where there
are examples of case studies and a library of resources that you can
use to inspire thoughts around creative engagement.
www.centreforip.org.uk
Music
Food
49
50. 50
My Tree, My Community
Christmas can often be quite lonely for older people.
The Eden Project’s My Tree, My Community is an
intergenerational seasonal project which uses older
people’s stories to fire young people’s creativity. Older
people are invited to local schools to share stories of
Christmas past and present. The children then work
with an artist, using the stories they’ve uncovered as the
inspiration for Christmas decorations. Each tree tells a
unique story of a community, a lifetime of memories and
of knowledge to be passed on for future generations.
When the trees are decorated they are displayed at
the Eden Project where they are seen by thousands of
people over the Christmas period.
53. Making the most
of older people’s
skills and
knowledge
Like many in our communities older people need an
opportunity to be valuable and valued. Retirement,
old age or disability won’t stop people being useful
to your project.
53
54. We often assume that everyone wants to be in a club or a group,
but for some it’s a daunting vision, for others it’s just not their cup
of tea. They may, however still enjoy the feeling that they have
contributed in a meaningful way to their community. For example, a
man who has practical skills may not want to join a men’s club but is
happy tinkering away in his shed fixing other people’s broken tools
or making soil sifters for a local gardening club. A woman may not
want to leave her pet at home alone all day but is happy baking great
cakes in her kitchen or using her greenhouse to grow plants for sale
in your project.
Some people are good at practical tasks, others have a penchant for
numbers or design, or organising people. It takes all kinds of skills
and knowledge to organise an event or a project so don’t consider
older people solely as beneficiaries of a project. If they have skills
that will help your project to be more successful then invite them to
be part of the decision-making. Establishing mutual respect will help
to diffuse potentially negative attitudes that may arise from past
experiences. Older people need to feel that they will be listened to
and that their ideas and comments will be respected just like anyone
else. For some, this may be the first time their opinion has been
asked about anything that happens in the community so make this
gathering a comfortable, safe environment where people feel they
can express their ideas openly.
Accessing older people’s
skills and knowledge
Are there older people in the community who have skills
and knowledge that they would like to use more? It’s
important to recognise that people enjoy different levels
of participation and involvement, depending on their
confidence, personality and availability.
54
55. Older people can help spread the word about events, celebrations,
workshops etc, putting up information in local businesses and
shops, passing the word through family, friends and neighbours,
even the postman and milkman. They often know where older social
groups hang out and are at home during the day to contact day-
time clubs and groups. Involving older people in the planning and
delivery of your project can help you engage with more older people
in the wider community. It can be more tempting to attend or get
involved in a project if the person telling you about it is within your
age group, because it feels less intimidating and more likely that your
requirements have been considered.
Invite people to a coffee morning or tea party to chat about how
they can help. You can do this during your initial planning stage,
whilst you’re out and about with flyers or on a local radio chat about
your idea or event.
For some, a lack of confidence can be an issue and the thought
of getting involved in a group activity can raise anxiety levels. This
might be because they are new to the area and don’t yet feel settled,
or because they are living alone and don’t feel confident about
attending an activity without a friend or family member.
If you are inviting older people to help out, assign clear roles and
responsibilities. Make use of their skills and knowledge – it helps
them to feel valued and takes some of the pressure off you too.
If your project is about a venue or an event then hold this meeting
at the place itself, if you can. It will help the group to get a feel for
what your idea is and how they can be involved. If that’s not possible
then somewhere like a local cafe or community centre. Try and
avoid small, meeting-room style places; they are rarely inspirational
environments and can create the wrong atmosphere.
55
57. 57
Living Street Walking with older
people
Living Streets gets older
people walking and actively
improving their communities in
South Yorkshire. Older people
in Rotherham, Sheffield and
Doncaster are carrying out access
audits in outdoor environments
for older residents; particularly
access to local services such
as shops, doctors surgeries,
libraries etc. it’s also reducing
social isolation for many older
people by involving them in
volunteering opportunities, such
as leading walks and getting
involved in heritage projects. They
have highlighted issues such as
insufficient resting places and
lack of dropped kerbs, pavement
parking and overhanging
branches. Their reports have
helped local authorities to address
some of those issues; benches
have been installed in some places
and handrails and dropped kerbs
have been installed in a shopping
precinct. The programmed
walks are helping older people
to maintain physical fitness and
reconnect with their communities.
www.livingstreets.org.uk/walk-
with-us/walking-with-older-
people
60. Conclusion
There are lots of older people in the UK and the number is
growing. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) tells us that
there are currently 11 million people over 65, representing nearly
a fifth of the population (17.7%). Projections suggest that this will
increase to nearer a quarter in the coming years (23.5% by 2030).
Even if your project is not specifically aimed at benefitting
older people, these numbers are significant. They represent
an opportunity, a valuable resource with a wealth of skills and
experience in your community. A survey by the Department
of Work and Pensions found that just over half of the people
approaching retirement age had aspirations to volunteer, where
volunteering was defined as unpaid work through a group, club
or organisation.
Older people can be usefully and meaningfully engaged or
involved at all stages of your project, from an initial idea and
project planning through to ongoing activities and volunteering.
Like any other individual member of your community they have
their own skills, experience and aspirations. One thing they
share is a wealth of life experience commonly combined with a
sense of history and community in your neighbourhood, village,
town or city.
Reaching and connecting with older people can sometimes be a
challenge but creating a project that values the involvement and
contribution of older community members and makes them
feel considered and welcome will make it easier for them to
become a part of what you are doing.
Your project can make a positive difference to the lives of older
people in your community and their involvement can make a
positive difference to your project.
60
61. Continued participation in the economy, community and culture is
good for individuals and good for society. It keeps us active, healthy
and happy. The research community calls this productive ageing…”
From The New Old Age: Perspectives on innovating our way to the good life
for all, NESTA, 2009
‘There was a relationship between volunteering at least once in the
last 12 months and life satisfaction. For older people the proportion of
those who volunteered and said they were satisfied with their lives
overall was higher at 84%. For those who did not volunteer 75% said
they were satisfied with their life overall.’
Measuring National Wellbeing: Older People’s Leisure Time and
Volunteering; Office of National Statistics, 2013.
61
62. The Sensory Trust: www.sensorytrust.org.uk
The Eden Project: www.edenproject.com/learning
Rotary: www.rotary.org
Lions clubs: www.lionsclubs.co
Women’s Institute: www.thewi.org.uk
Soroptimists: www.soroptimistinternational.org
Volunteer Centres: www.ncvo.org.uk/ncvo-volunteering/find-a-
volunteer-centre
RSVP, (Retired Senior Volunteers Programme): www.csv-rsvp.org.uk
University of the Third Age (U3A): www.u3a.org.uk
The Green Gym: www.tcv.org.uk/greengym
Engaging with Older People Evidence Review, Age UK.
Bingo and Beyond; Starting to Look at Good Practice When Working
with Older People, Engage with Age, June 2004.
Grouchy Old Men? a brief guide to help develop services that engage
isolated older men and promote good mental health and wellbeing,
The Mental Health Foundation, 2010.
Later Life fact sheet; The Later Life UK factsheet is produced by
Age UK and updated on a monthly basis. It is available publicly in a
downloadable PDF format.
Further reading and resources
Online resources
Print resources
62
63. Fact box - Loneliness and isolation information from
www.campaigntoendloneliness.org
(Blanchflower and Oswald (2004), Is Well-being
U-Shaped over the Life Cycle? Social Science & Medicine)
(Ramscar et al. (2014), The Myth of Cognitive Decline:
Non-Linear Dynamics of Lifelong Learning)
A few headline facts and figures taken from Later Life
UK factsheet, (Age UK, 2015) and the Campaign to end
loneliness www.campaigntoendloneliness.org
References
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63
68. 68
The UK has an ageing population.
There are more people over 65
than there are people under 16.
What impact is this having on our
communities? How does this affect
community projects? The Eden
Field Guide to Working with older
people explains how older people
can make a difference to your
projects and how your projects can
improve their lives.