Closing the generation gap in Keresley
A successful partnership, involving Warwickshire County Council’s ‘Positive about Young People’, is looking for more volunteers to help ‘close the generation gap’ in Keresley.
‘New Neighbours: Crossing the Divide’ is an Oral History project running in the village and involves younger people recording interviews with older people to explore the theme of ‘neighbourliness’.
It follows concerns from older residents about how a previously close-knit and supportive community had changed. ‘Positive about Young People’ and the Nuneaton & Bedworth Neighbourhood Watch Association have been working together on the project – supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund – to alter that perception.
Under the scheme, Young People learn how to use digital recording and editing equipment and software. Recorded interviews will be archived by the County Record Office and also offered to the Oral History Society.
The first round of interviews was successful according to Project Leader David Allton:
“Participants from both age groups have left any preconceptions about the other group at the door, and as a result are forming good relationships which are challenging stereotypes and crossing the generation gap.”
Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Children, Young People and Families, said: “This is a very inventive and worthwhile project to help different age groups understand each other and I would encourage more residents in Keresley to take part.”
For more information on how to take part contact project leader David Allton on 02476 754181 or email davidallton@warwickshire.gov.uk.