YMCA Derbyshire wins national award for inter-generational project
YMCA Derbyshire and partners Housing 21 have been named as winners in the first Awards for All Ages, presented on Tuesday at the House of Lords.
They were recognised in the ‘Leading the Way’ category of the awards for helping young people into work through training in catering and social care at Handyside Court – an extra care home operated by Housing 21 in Derby.
YMCA Derbyshire, in partnership with Housing 21, were one of 13 winners in six categories showcasing how older and younger people can be brought together in different ways to build stronger communities and end ‘age apartheid’ in Britain.
YMCA Derbyshire worked with Housing 21 to promote mutually beneficial partnerships between disadvantaged young people and residents at Handyside Court. It aimed to foster a greater sense of community, shift perceptions and promote the active engagement of older people in the local community.
The awards have been launched by United for All Ages to celebrate projects which bring older and younger people together, and were presented by broadcaster Fi Glover and Baroness Sally Greengross.
Gillian Sewell, Chief Executive of YMCA Derbyshire, said: “We are delighted that our work with Housing 21 and the residents of Handyside Court has received national recognition through this award. Credit should go to the learners themselves, who have engaged with the residents with respect and care, to the dedicated tutors and also the Handyside Court residents themselves who have been so welcoming and encouraging.
“We regard projects to bridge the gaps between generations as very important ways of promoting social cohesion and helping young people to develop as well-rounded members of the community. Our work at Handyside Court benefits both our learners and the residents, and this award will encourage others to follow the model we have established.”
Stephen Burke and Denise Burke, directors of United for All Ages, said: “Congratulations to all the winners of the first Awards for All Ages. They are great examples of what can be done by and for all ages. Their efforts and inspiration are creating a Britain for all ages.
“The winners demonstrate the richness and diversity of projects and people working to bring different generations together. Some of the projects are long-standing – forty years not out – while others are new in the last couple of years. Some have had national and international profile while others are very local in their impact. Almost all have come about because of an inspiring and pioneering individual. Never doubt that small groups of people can change the world.”
For more information, or a higher resolution version of the attached photo, please email enquiries@ymcaderbyshire.org.uk
