
I was pleased to be able to sign the pledge and support this innovative scheme to help raise awareness of the importance of skills swaps. Too often we overlook the need for different generations to get together and learn new skills such as IT, cooking and reading. It also provides an excellent opportunity for generations to discuss the difference in their lifestyles and encourage better understanding.
"We are delighted that Joan Ruddock MP has signed our pledge to support this year's Abbeyfield Week - AGEnda: A Generational Skills Swap. We would like to see more of these generational skills swaps in areas across the country to enable better understanding between different generations.
"Schemes such as this not only help alleviate loneliness amongst older people, but also teach younger generations skills that they might otherwise have missed."
Abbeyfield is also launching a competition for the best Inter-Generational Skills Swap to celebrate Abbeyfield week. One lucky school or youth group will win a visit from dance duo Twist and Pulse in September. The dance act, former Britain's Got Talent finalists, are backing Abbeyfield's AGEenda campaign and have pledged to not only meet the winning Skills Swap team, but also put on a special dance performance. Deatils of how to enter can be found on the Abbeyfield website.