Connecting young and old

A Lancaster charity’s new project is seeking to connect the young and elderly with an exchange of letters. 

Escape2make (E2M) has launched a letter writing pen pal project to help combat loneliness during the pandemic. The charity set up the socially-distanced project in an effort to maintain positive wellbeing among two groups who need it the most during this unprecedented time – the young and the elderly. 

The project’s producer, Kyle McKenzie, said: ‘Our mission at Escape2Make has always been to bring young people closer to their community – and provide them with the skills to make things, make friends and make a difference. 

‘However, we have also identified that one of the groups that will suffer the most are the elderly. We want to do whatever we can to prevent loneliness and a decline in mental health conditions.

‘Bringing those groups together is an intuitive way for them to feel connected in a time where they may be feeling more alone than ever. Our newest project will see a group of young and elderly people connect over 10 weeks in an exchange of letters. 

‘Bringing communication back to its roots, we aim to provide those involved with a fresh look into the lives of someone who lives differently to the way they do, as well as establish a feeling of togetherness and community during lockdown. 

‘Escape2Make has always practised bringing young people away from screens and helping them realise the importance of building relationships and learning practical skills through face-to-face contact.’

Last month, the Government’s ‘Loneliness Minister,’ Baroness Barran, urged people to write letters and cards to those still isolating as lockdown measures ease, as a study by Royal Mail showed nearly three-quarters of people (74%) feel that writing letters has a positive effect on mental health. 

‘We all have a role in being kind and looking out for each other, and as some of us begin to regain some normality, we cannot forget those who may need to stay at home for longer and could be at risk of feeling lonely,’ she said.

‘Writing letters might be a slightly forgotten art, but it’s more important than ever to connect with people. Putting pen to paper is an excellent way of making sure our friends, family and neighbours know we’re thinking about them.’