An intergenerational project set up by Childsplay Nursery in Newcastle has shown that friendships can be formed regardless of age.

Twelve pre-school children from the nursery visit residents at Housing 21’s Extra Care scheme, Winton Court in Gateshead, twice a month.

Since launching the project as a pilot in 2022, it has been agreed to continue it more regularly. The project is part of a wider study to show the impact that can be made when older adults and younger children work together. Childsplay in Newcastle has engaged in intergenerational work for nine years as part of its forest school and allotment.

The project is also part of research study with Newcastle University and is working on a UK-wide toolkit to show the impact the work has on children and residents.

Carole Foster, Local Housing Manager at Winton Court said: “The residents look forward to the pre-school children visiting.

“The children enjoy drawing, colouring and reading with the residents. Some of the children showcase their writing skills, and when the sun is shining, they enjoy playing games outside and spending time in the garden.

“The residents enjoy listening to the children’s laughter. Its lovely to see them having their little conversations and sharing stories with each other.”

The families of the residents and the children will come together in August as part of the end of year celebrations. The children handed out invitations to the residents in June.

One of the residents (pictured below), Jean, used to work as a teacher and loves to be involved in all activities. Jean has created a strong bond with the children and knows their names. Jean said: “I love being needed and I love to read the children stories.”

Tara and Lisa from Childsplay Nursery said: "In 2022, we began our search for a local care home or Extra Care setting which had a very similar ethos to our own. As a non-profit making setting with a real sense of community spirit, we felt Winton Court was the perfect setting to share our vision.

"We contacted the Local Housing Manager at Winton Court and were warmly greeted by everyone. We currently visit fortnightly with 12 of our preschool children and due to the huge success of the project, we are extending this to once a week from September 2024 which will see us involve 26 children and more residents.

“The management team at Housing 21, the residents and the residents’ families have been so very welcoming, and we thoroughly enjoy our visits. Over the last two years we have seen a huge impact on the residents and the children. We have observed high levels of involvement, collaboration, communication and engagement. We really are lucky to be part of this very special project and we look forward to what the future holds for our work together with Winton Court.”

Winton Court is located in the heart of Winlaton village near Gateshead, within its own picturesque grounds.

The Extra Care scheme features a communal lounge, a quiet lounge used as a library, and landscaped gardens.

Find out more about the scheme on the website: Housing 21 - Winton Court