Intergenerational work in East Lothian was recognised at a recent awards ceremony.
Dunbar Fashion School, Sanderson’s Wynd Primary School, Dunbar Grammar School and a local volunteering stalwart were among the winners at the Generations Working Together awards, which celebrate the talent and commitment of intergenerational work across Scotland.
The award for contribution to reducing loneliness and isolation was presented to Fashion School Ltd, Dunbar for their Design & Time project. This recognises work in developing relationships between a group of secondary pupils and members of the local dementia friendly groups, while learning and sharing skills, including the development and creation of mood boards, pattern construction, cutting room practise, machine study, garment making. The Fashion School project was also highly commended in the most innovative project category.
In the promoting achievement and attainment in education category, a certificate of merit was presented to Sanderson’s Wynd Primary School, Tranent, in recognition of a partnership with Crookston Care Home. A group of pupils purchase and deliver newspapers to residents at Crookston Care Home while another supports staff in planning and organising a weekly activity afternoon. This has been warmly welcomed by staff and residents and given pupils an opportunity to use their literacy and numeracy skills as well as develop life skills.
A certificate of merit was presented to Dunbar Grammar School, reflecting pupils’ efforts in organising activities including tea parties and day trips. They have also created a Dementia Friendly Dunbar colouring book. Long lasting friendships have developed between the pupils and older people in the community.
Meanwhile, the coveted Yvonne Coull Award for Network Co-ordinator was awarded to Sue Northrup, East Lothian Network. Sue has served as a local co-ordinator for Generations Working Together since 2014 and helps to connect people and groups within local communities. She also runs Dementia Friendly East Lothian.
Sharon Saunders, Head of Communities and Partnerships, East Lothian Council said:
“Intergenerational work can have a hugely positive effect in helping to reduce loneliness in our communities. It is also beneficial for young people in terms of developing their skills and raising their confidence. Our Area Partnerships are incredibly supportive of intergenerational initiatives in East Lothian and we’re absolutely delighted that Dunbar Fashion School, Sanderson’s Wynd Primary School, Dunbar Grammar School and Sue Northrop have been recognised at this year’s Generations Working Together awards. Huge congratulations to everyone involved.”
Alison MacDonald, Interim Director of the East Lothian Health and Social Care Partnership, said:
“Intergenerational initiatives can be hugely beneficial for many older people living in our local communities, helping to reduce isolation and develop friendships. We’re very appreciative of the efforts of those who put themselves forward to be involved in this work and it’s fantastic to see these East Lothian success stories recognised at the awards.”
Generations Working Together is a national charity with over 2,500 members and provides information, delivers support and encourages involvement to benefit all of Scotland’s generations, by working, learning, volunteering and living together. These awards celebrate and recognise the outstanding talent, commitment and inspirational involvement of workers, volunteers and groups who are involved with and are embracing Intergenerational work across Scotland. The awards are now in their fifth year.
Loreen Pardoe, of Support from the Start Haddington & GWT E. Lothian, said:
“It was an absolute pleasure to attend the Generations Working Together conference and see so many being recognised for great work in East Lothian. In addition to all the awards, Art Point Scotland also presented a workshop on ‘The Language of Art’, which is a joint initiative with University of Edinburgh’s Bilingualism Matters. Both this project and Design & Time instantly inspired many others, representing multiple areas across Scotland. It is particularly special to have received the award on Sue’s behalf as her enthusiasm, expertise and determination are incredible; everything she does is so worthwhile. Sue and I work closely together to support and develop projects, including those noted above and more. We work with Area Partnerships and our specific networks to develop good intergenerational practice – with a clear belief that the partnership working brings great depth to positive outcomes. Both Sue and I extend our very sincere congratulations to all the award winners and presenters. We are excited to see the network developing further in East Lothian.”