£100 for 100km

Research has shown that only 5% of over 65s have structured contact with young people, which is resulting in an increasing intergenerational gap in society, perpetuating misunderstanding and division. Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits linked with this type of interaction: such as a decrease in loneliness, mental decline and blood pressure amongst the elderly population. More than a million people over 65 in the UK say they ‘often’ or ‘always’ feel lonely, which can have the same detrimental health impacts as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Inspired by the award-winning TV show Old People's Home For 4 Year Olds we are holding an interactive craft event for approximately 15 elderly individuals aged 55 + from the St. Johns Foundation , and 15 children aged 7-10, from Brownies  (part of The Girlguiding Group). The elderly resident community will be our predominant focus, as this type of interaction has been shown to reduce feelings of loneliness, mental decline and blood pressure amongst the elderly population (Steptoe et al., 2013). However, for the children, these activities will also offer social and personal development. Following our event and our analysis of its outcomes, we hope to encourage local authorities to provide such intergenerational schemes regularly.

We will be running 100km in 1 week to raise £100 - these funds will help us to transport the individuals to the event and to source the craft materials required for the session. 

Thanks in advance for your support! 

Holly, Beth, Caprice, Betsy, Hannah & Laura