Calendars celebrate a city for all ages

Manchester’s Positive Images of Ageing calendars have taken on a multigenerational theme for 2008 in line with one of Manchester’s core priorities to promote intergenerational work in the city.

The calendar, developed by the Valuing Older People team, shows 12 stunning images of young and old working and relaxing together, showing how the generations can teach and support one another.

The Positive Images of Ageing campaign was one of five shortlisted entries for the Health Service Journal communications award this year, which attracted more than 1,000 entries.

Some of the best images can also be seen on 85 billboards around the city centre until 1 January. These have already generated interest in developing new projects.

A significant body of evidence locally, nationally and internationally shows that intergenerational approaches can break down the stereotypes young and old have of each other.

Manchester is seeking to find ways to help the generations to reconnect through community projects, volunteering, radio programmes, environmental projects and drama.

Councillor Val Stevens, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council and lead member on older people, said: "We are delighted that the Positive Images of Ageing team chose an intergenerational theme for this year's calendar to support the work that is going on across the city.

"We also hope that some of the images inspire you to rethink the way you look at other generations and go some way to unite people. There are impressive examples of improved educational attainment, reduced crime rates and a better sense of community spirit and well-being when the generations are connected. In Manchester we are leading the way nationally in working to reconnect young and old."

To order your copy of the calendar or to find out more about Manchester's intergenerational work, please call the Valuing Older People Team on 0161 234 3391.

Media contacts: Juliet Appleby or Martin Hellewell, tel 0161 234 3237 or 3729