WELCOME to East Lothian Intergenerational Network
John Muir Alpacas - day out!
Enjoy this little glimpse of a wonderful day - when young and old(er) carers in East Lothian paired up with a four-legged friend and enjoyed a lovely walk and talk together.
The aim to promote health and wellbeing in those who give so much for the wellbeing of their loved ones....
What a pleasure to speak with CoEL staff at the Musselburgh Communities Day when they shared beaming smiles when talking about the intergenerational walk and hoping to do many more joined up ventures and activities together with Young Carers of E. Lothian going forward.
The chat, smiles and laughter developed on the walk, which started with two strangers of very different age groups and a four-legged character (age unknown) then ended up with emerging friendships and happy wanderers.
Linking through animals is so often a wonderful connector; creating opportunities to get to know each other, find things in common and enjoy the experience itself.
An interesting reflection was that the session started 'a bit awkwardly for some' and that is often the case - as the activity itself throws everyone together all of a sudden, but the activity helped to make it a success. Often it does, but best IG practice thoroughly recommends a bit of prep before the activity - it helps those taking part and those facilitating to feel more comfortable and for the new grouping to be a success, as not all are. In the prep we look at logistics, location / activity of course, but we also look at expectations, stereotyping, potential situations and explore these - all a part of breaking down negative stereotypes, building a strong basis for engagement and clarity around the benefits for all participants. (This can extend to facilitators and supporters too), so give it a whirl. You can find out much more from GWT through their Level 1 training and e-modules, but the network is here to share experiences and knowledge too - so don't be shy to get in touch.