Almost 200 Bradfordians have come together as part of a huge intergenerational linking event. 

The Linking Network connected representatives from 28 schools and older people’s settings at the Mercure Bankfield Hotel this week. 

Guests included those from care homes, retirement living complexes, and even exercise groups. 

People young and old shared gifts and conversations over food.

Linda Cowie Director at The Linking Network said “The joy that intergenerational social experiences bring to people’s lives is priceless. It helps to break down barriers, demystify stereotypes and bond communities together.

“These are long term links with ongoing commitments from both sides to arrange opportunities for the young and older people to meet up, share experiences and build valuable relationships.”

Trinity Academy Bradford school has been connected with residents at Incommunities-run Goodwin House, a retirement living home in Queensbury, since 2021. 

It has seen children exchange letters and pictures as well as homemade small gifts with the elderly.  

Naseem Akhtar, the Retirement Housing Officer based at Goodwin House said: “The young people have come in to play board games with the residents and in a few weeks, they are bringing their musical instruments in to play for the residents – it’s brilliant. The residents get so much from these experiences, and it’s clear the students do too.”