Deputy Minister for Social Services, Gwenda Thomas, brought different age groups closer together today (Monday, 02 June) when she launched the consultation of the Assembly Government’s first draft Intergenerational Strategy for Wales at the Senedd in Cardiff Bay.

The draft strategy is a key action point of the Assembly Government’s ‘Strategy for Older People in Wales’, that recommended a development programme be established to promote the development and improved awareness of the benefits of intergenerational links.

As a consequence of identifying the importance of promoting intergenerational relationships and cooperation Wales is the first country in the world to build the United Nations Declaration on older people into a national policy.

The draft Intergenerational Strategy for Wales contains a number of examples of good practice in Wales and a source of further advice on how intergenerational approaches are an effective way to address a number of key government priorities such as building active communities, developing respect and understanding across the generations, promoting citizenship, regenerating neighbourhoods and addressing inequality.

Speaking at the conference, Deputy Minister for Social Services, Gwenda Thomas, said:

"Ensuring that people from across the generations work together, share their experiences and expertise is vitally important - which is why intergenerational practice is and will continue to be a key priority issue for the Assembly Government’s Strategy for Older People in Wales.

"We have been funding development work for the last four years but now is the time to step it up a gearBy developing a greater understanding and respect between generations we increase our chances of building more cohesive communities which is why today’s launch of the consultation is not only important news for the older people in Wales but for the country as a whole.

A number of projects have been established to bring younger and older people together throughout Wales. Working with Schools, Libraries and Community groups the projects have included butter making, cookery, fashion shows, film making, history, gardening, community improvement projects and many more.The draft strategy will now go out to consultation until 30 August and it is anticipated that the Intergenerational Strategy will be formally launched in the Autumn.