YOUNG and old joined forces to create a time capsule which will be buried under the former Powergen site.
Pupils from Haslucks Green Junior School became custodians of the time capsule at a launch event during Dementia Action Week (May 20 to 26) following a week of activity designed to educate the children on the ‘forget-me-not’ generation.
The school will fill the capsule with examples of community work until the opening of the village in spring 2021.
The event forms part of a two-year intergenerational project between the ExtraCare Charitable Trust and Haslucks Green Junior School to raise awareness and understanding of the two generations and how they can benefit from time spent with each other.
Bill Cobb, from the Longbridge Retirement Village was at the ceremony for the time capsule hand over.
The 76-year-old was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia last July and spent time with the children, joining them for a forest school session.
Bill’s wife, Ann Cobb, 73, said: “It has made him feel that he still has a purpose.
“He has enjoyed being with the children and being able to talk to them, and go round the forest garden.
“It’s just been fantastic, he’s loved every minute and wants to come back more.”
Liz Hollingshead, Project Development Coordinator at the ExtraCare Charitable Trust said: “It was lovely to see the two generations come together today and hear the children talk about what they have learned so far.
“It was clear from both the younger and older people that they have thoroughly enjoyed it.
“We know both age groups can benefit mentally and physically from time spent with each other, which is why intergenerational activity continues to be a focus for us and why we have included a children’s play area within our plans for the new Solihull Village.”
Items added to the time capsule included a book of drawings by pupils of their grandparents.
Carol Taylor, Head Teacher at Haslucks Green Junior School said: “The children have got so much out of meeting the residents of Longbridge Retirement Village and they are learning so much.
“It’s exciting them to learn about dementia and this week has put into context the work we’re doing.
“We’re really looking forward to the next few years, and when there are people living at the village that can engage closely with the school.
“It’s going to be great fun for the future.”
Guests at the event, which included residents from Longbridge Retirement Village, Lizzie Edwards and Julia Phillips from Solihull Council and Mary Keddy, a dementia support worker from the Alzheimer’s Society
