Trafford and Stockport College Group is excited to announce the return of Welcome Wednesdays, a long-standing initiative developed in partnership with local organisation Age UK Stockport.
The aim of these monthly sessions is to foster intergenerational connections between students and older adults in the community.
The first session of the academic year took place at Stockport College, on October 2nd, a date marking the International Day of Older Persons and was attended by the Mayor of Stockport Cllr Suzanne Wyatt.
Over the years, Welcome Wednesdays has built a strong relationship between Stockport College and Age UK Stockport and involves students from a range of college faculties.
This year’s opening event showcased a collaborative effort across different curriculum departments, including:
- Hair and Beauty students offering hand massages
- T Level Construction students demonstrating surveying equipment
- Progression students welcoming attendees and managing refreshments
The mayor addressed the college’s guests at the event, saying: “During this mayoral year I have developed somewhat of a mantra. Wherever I go I say, ‘without volunteers, society as we know it would fall apart’.
“I salute all volunteers and therefore totally agree with the statement that older people do make a huge difference in their communities.
“Today’s event inviting college students to participate is inspirational but also somewhat obvious.
“How many of us have had to rely on our young people to help us with sorting out an IT problem or tuning the television.
“At the same time young people often choose to ask older relatives for help with educational projects or life skills solutions.
“We should recognise and celebrate our interdependence, young and old working together. Thank you, students, for coming, and good luck with your future plans and thank you older people for the huge contribution you make to society. Long may it continue.”
Stockport resident Joan Thompson attended the event and really enjoyed it: “It has been a really nice afternoon. It’s an opportunity to meet friends and chat with the students,’ she said.
Alysha Dempsey, studying Step into Learning, also enjoyed the event as a volunteer: “I’ve really enjoyed today’s event. I handed out food and drinks and talked to the residents. Today has really helped to develop my confidence and communication skills.”
Principal James Scott of the Trafford and Stockport College Group remarked on the importance of this initiative: “Welcome Wednesdays have become a vital part of our community engagement strategy, providing students with real-world opportunities to build skills and create lasting connections with older community members.”
Typically attended by around 25 people, these sessions alternate between the group’s Stockport and Cheadle campuses and November’s session will focus on sustainability and environmental awareness. For more information about Welcome Wednesdays or how to get involved, please contact Charlotte Brocklehurst – charlotte.brocklehurst@tscg.ac.uk
