Over 300 organisations across the UK are hosting events this week (17-21 June) in aid of Loneliness Awareness Week to raise awareness and reduce the stigma associated with it. Recognition of the week was started by the Marmalade Trust three years ago.
Life Stories is a project currently running in three schools in Sussex that encourages young people to engage with older people, tackling loneliness one story at the time. The project was developed in 2014 by Sussex-based Bridging Ages CIC, a small community organisation located in West Sussex that develop intergenerational projects in order to tackle loneliness, challenge ageist attitudes and strengthen our communities.
Sharing stories of love and loss brings generations together
Over eight weeks, teenagers will interview older people about their lives. They learn about historical events and how things used to be. They hear stories about the joys and sorrows of a long life. Then the teenagers write a book based on their favourite stories. The books are then professionally published and presented to the older person at a public celebration. Through the project, friendships are built between old and young and each becomes a part of the other’s life story.
Research shows that both young and old can be lonely
The Life Stories project builds bonds between generations to strengthen communities. A study by Age UK found that two in five older people said the television is their main form of company. Similarly, a recent survey by the BBC and Wellcome Trust found that 16-24 year olds experience loneliness more often than any other age group.
In East Sussex, a Life Stories celebration is taking place during Loneliness Awareness Week. Mayfield Girls’ School partnered with Mayfield & Five Ashes Community Services to bring the project to their community. The celebration is a traditional tea attended by family and friends. Students will read excerpts from their books and older participants will tell about their experience in the project. After the book presentation, each participant receives a hardbound copy of their book.
To find out more about the events, or to discover how you can get involved for the community this Loneliness Awareness week, visit www.marmaladetrust.org.
