Intergenerational Cook Book

Overview

This project was developed from Generations Growing Together, and was planned by the young people from Connect after their involvement with Voluntary Action Orkney (VAO) Adult Befriending Services. The young people hoped that residents of Eunson Kloss and members of VAO’s Befriending services would work alongside them to develop a cook book. The book was produced by the young people but incorporated favourite recipes from the different age groups. The project promoted intergenerational communication and worked to break down barriers between the ages. The young people planned to produce the book and held an open day and launch with the residents who had contributed to it. It is hoped that sales from the book will help fund further Intergenerational Projects.

Benefits for the Community

Such a project was much needed to encourage intergenerational working within the Orkney community and to break down perceived barriers. The aim was to promote therapeutic activities that would benefit all involved. Engaging in an enjoyable activity is the crucial icebreaker and catalyst for intergenerational communication to bloom and grow. Everyone involved enjoyed the sessions, gained skills and confidence and they are now more tolerant of one another. The pre conceived perceptions of each generation have been challenged in a practical and constructive way and this has lead to people working well together and enjoying each other’s company.

Benefits for the Younger People

Up to ten young people from the Connect Project have been involved with the production of the book. These young people fall into the NEET bracket (Not in education, employment or training) and therefore tend to have significant barriers to being part of the local community and engaging in any of the social gatherings and activities. The young people have had the opportunity to work with local artist Alex Leonard and had fun producing the book as well as working with people from different generations. Through this project, the young people developed skills such as motivation, communication, working with others, confidence and self esteem.

Benefits for the Older People

Fifteen residents from Eunson Kloss took part in the project. Many of the residents are socially isolated and do not have the opportunity to mix with others on a regular basis. The residents were invited to the sessions by young people who delivered posters to Eunson Kloss, and flyers to the resident’s homes. Residents were able to take part in therapeutic activities and also to have the opportunity to communicate and socialise with others hence reducing social isolation.

This project contributes to the Scottish National Performance Framework (NPF):

Scottish NPF Objectives

The main NPF objective that this project contributes to is:

  • Social Cohesion brings together people from different backgrounds and promotes development of communities that value diversity. Individuals share a sense of belonging and work together to make their area a better place.

These NPF objectives could also apply:

  • Wealthier and Fairer will support activities that address inequalities and enhance skills, employability and job opportunities. It builds on the characteristics of solidarity, cohesion and sustainability to ensure that all of Scotland has an opportunity to flourish.
  • Smarter will focus on improving literacy, numeracy and attainment and on raising and realising ambition for all.
  • Safer and Stronger aims to help local communities to flourish and become stronger, safer places to live.

Scottish NPF Outcomes

Our young people are successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens: To enable children, young people and (subsequently) adults to thrive from an early age, and make a positive contribution in the 21st century.

We have strong, resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions and how they affect others: Being part of a strong community gives us the support we need locally. It minimises crime, antisocial behaviour and their social and economic costs.

We have improved the life chances for children, young people and families at risk: Tackling risks early and building the resilience of children, young people and families will improve the educational, health and employment outcomes of our people.

We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society: We will continue to advance awareness-raising and anti-discrimination activity, to challenge attitudes, reduce stigma and build a tolerant Scotland.