Finalists for the Best Partnership of the Year Award!
We are overjoyed to announce that The Together Project has been named a finalist for the Best Partnership of the Year award in the Seniors Housing Awards! This recognition is a testament to the incredible impact of our intergenerational Songs & Smiles programme, which has been bringing joy and connection to senior housing communities across the UK.
What is Songs & Smiles?
Songs & Smiles is an innovative intergenerational music group that unites children aged 0-4, their parents or guardians, and older people living in care homes or senior housing schemes. Each week, we host hour-long sessions filled with music, play, and friendship. These sessions are designed to create a warm and welcoming environment where participants can bond and have fun together.
The Power of Partnership
Our success with Songs & Smiles is built on strong partnerships with care homes and senior housing operators nationwide. In 2023, we collaborated with:
Guinness Partnerships - Brackendale and Broadoak
One Housing - Roseberry Mansions and Esther Randall Court
Building on this success, we have expanded in 2024 to work with:
Clarion - Brightwell Court and Gawthorne Court
United St Saviours Charity - Appleby Blue Almshouse
Creative Support - Sue Starkey House
These partnerships are vital to the development, implementation, and sustainability of Songs & Smiles. By working closely with senior housing operators, we tailor our sessions to meet the unique needs of each community, ensuring that everyone benefits from our joyful intergenerational interactions.
Our Collaborative Approach
Our approach to collaboration enhances the effectiveness and reach of Songs & Smiles. Here's how we do it:
Needs Assessment: Senior housing schemes provide valuable insights into the specific needs of their residents, allowing us to tailor sessions that maximise benefits for all participants.
Resource Sharing: Leveraging resources from senior housing schemes, such as space, staff, and promotional channels, ensures the programme’s sustainability and reach.
Integrated Care: We integrate Songs & Smiles into broader health and wellbeing strategies, enhancing its impact on mental and physical health.
The Impact of Songs & Smiles
For older adults:
Combats loneliness: Our sessions provide regular social interaction, reducing feelings of isolation.
Enhances wellbeing: Music and social interaction stimulate cognitive functions and contribute to overall mental health.
Improves physical health: Gentle movement and dance improve mobility and coordination.
Promotes joy and happiness: The presence of children brings joy and a sense of purpose.
For children:
Social Development: Interacting with older adults fosters empathy and social skills.
Emotional Growth: The programme supports emotional development through meaningful interactions.
For parents/guardians:
Supportive Community: Parents benefit from a supportive network, alleviating feelings of loneliness.
New Connections: Songs & Smiles provides a space for forming new friendships and connections.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Our 2023 survey results highlight the programme’s success:
100% of senior housing scheme residents said, “Songs & Smiles makes me feel less lonely/socially isolated.”
100% said, “Songs & Smiles brightens my week.”
Here are a few testimonials from our participants:
Resident: “The children make me smile.”
Parent: “Songs & Smiles has a feel-good vibe that sets you up for the rest of the day!”
Parent: “It's wonderful to see different generations being together and having fun.”
A Heartfelt Thank You
We are immensely grateful to our partners and participants for their continued support and enthusiasm. Your commitment to fostering joy and connection across generations is what makes Songs & Smiles truly special.
Looking Ahead
As we await the results of the Seniors Housing Awards, we remain dedicated to expanding our reach and impact. Together, we can continue to create communities where everyone feels connected, valued, and happy.
Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being part of The Together Project family!