Below, our older volunteer Linda tells us about her experience of taking part in InCommon’s intergenerational calls during lockdown.

“The pandemic has been particularly hard. One day I was able to mix with people and then quite literally the next day, within hours, it was all cut off. I found it difficult to get my head round. It was like a bereavement. Before the pandemic, we used to organise coffee mornings and trips for residents who live here. We’ve missed out on so many trips over the last 15 months. 

I’d never done anything like InCommon’s programme before. Of course I have my own children, but they’re considered adults now. My oldest daughter is 40! So I was a bit nervous before our first Zoom call, I didn’t quite know what to expect. But they were such a great bunch of kiddies. The thing is, there’s no pretension about children. Their reactions are so natural - whoever they’re talking to. I loved seeing the expressions on their faces - especially when I told them about my family. You could see their eyes popping out of their heads when I said that I have 11 siblings! 

It’s been good for me to reconnect with young people during this time. I think the calls have helped the children, too - helped them to feel a bit more confident in themselves. I’d recommend InCommon’s projects to others at the scheme - especially to those who are housebound for whatever reason. It’s been like a window onto the outside world.”