Skill Swaps

Young and older people living in and around Stokesley have begun a unique skills away programme.

Last week ‘Wii-habilitation’ saw young people pitting their wits in tennis, golf and bowling against their elders in a bid to show how technology can improve strength, endurance and co-ordination as well as being fun!

Using Nintendo Wiis a group of youngsters showcased an idea being developed by Age Concern and Broadacres which it is hoped will eventually be rolled out to residential homes around the town.

“Intergenerational projects can benefit communities in lots of ways – by improving cohesion between the young and old, improving the fear of crime among older people and reducing the number of incidents of anti-social behaviour by young people,” said Lifestyles Manager, Lisa Wilson. “It is also seeing a large range of organisations working together in and around Stokesley which is great for the town’s community spirit.”

• The Stokesley and Great Ayton Intergenerational Project Group is currently made up of the Hambleton Over Fifties Forum, Stokesley and District Community Care Association, Stokesley Leisure Centre, Stokesley Library and Community Resource Centre, Volunteer Centre Stokesley, Broadacres Housing Association, North Yorkshire County Council, Stokesley School and Hambleton District Council.