A charity called “Young Bristol” might evoke images of activities purely for young people. Not so!

A Bristol charity set up in 1928 is demonstrating the value of connecting the generations by running a whole series of activities run by younger people on behalf of their older counterparts in the community.

Since its foundation almost a century ago, Young Bristol has evolved into one of Bristol’s leading youth charities, providing critical out-of-school services for young people of 8 – 25 years in communities across the city. 

However, although a youth charity, Young Bristol now offers programmes and activities for over 55s from their community-based youth club venues. These include a weekly silver social group, over 55s water-sports sessions, walking football and walking tennis sessions.

They have also undertaken several intergenerational projects and their youth clubs have partnered with local charities working with older people and local care homes.

In the words of Lucy Saunders, their head of development and fundraising, “Many of Young Bristol’s venues are located in the most deprived urban communities in Bristol and, during daytime hours, these are often under-utilised whilst children and young people attend school.

Over the years it has become our increasing passion to become a vibrant facilitator to local communities. Young Bristol’s work with older generations has developed over the years, with a popular Silver Social group for over 55s at Ashton Vale Club for Young People to Broad Plain & Riverside Youth Project developing boxing sessions for those affected by Parkison’s Disease, and a range of other intergenerational opportunities benefiting young and old alike.

“As we continue to develop this work, our vision continues with the aim to connect communities, reduce social isolation and loneliness, and improve attitudes to the local area.”

You can read more about this inspirational charity at https://youngbristol.com/ –and the Age Action Alliance is delighted to welcome them as members.