Promoting intergenerational programmes: where is the evidence to inform policy and practice?

Abstract

UK government and non-governmental organisations are promoting the use of intergenerational programmes in England and Wales to improve community cohesion. However, much thought needs to be given to designing programmes and intergenerational projects stand an increased chance of succeeding if they draw on previous successes and failures. This will only be possible if the dearth of readily accessible and practical information needed by practitioners is rectified. In this article recommendations are made on what needs to be done to progress intergenerational, programmes and relations, achieve successful outcomes and avoid unintended consequences such as reinforcing negative, ageist stereotypes and exacerbating already fragile intergenerational relationships