Generation gap bridged with spades (From Bury Times)

Generation gap bridged with spades

6:00am Tuesday 2nd March 2010

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AN ENVIRONMENTAL charity is bringing together old and young to sow the seeds of friendship.

For a new project run by Groundwork Bury and Bolton sees people of different ages working together on environmental projects.

Over the next few weeks they will work to clear gardens, plant flowers and do landscaping on estates across Radcliffe.

The inter-generational project aims to break down the barriers between young and old and reduce the fear of crime. It runs until the end of March and is funded using a £16,000 grant from Bury Council.

Paul Howes, senior project officer, said: “Our work is based around environmental improvements and it seemed a natural progression to use that for intergenerational work.

“This will allow people living on the estates who have experienced youth nuisance to see local teenagers doing something positive.

“From the young people’s point of view, it gives them a sense of ownership of their estate. If the young people have been involved in a site, they might show it more respect in the future and value it more.”

Small groups have been planning the projects since November and work is now starting on various estates.

An outdoor learning zone with raised beds and a decked stage will be built at Radcliffe Primary School on Saturday, March 6.

Among those doing the work will be pupils and parents, young people from the Y-Zone youth centre, and members of Abbey Close Tenants’ and Residents’ Association (TRA).

Residents unable to maintain their gardens are benefiting from having them cleared by members of Dumers TRA and young people from the estate. They also worked on two community gardens in the Dumers area which were overgrown and need some planting.

A team of young volunteers will also visit Rose Court Care Home, in Water Street, to work with elderly residents.

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