Why Partner with Us?
As an award-winning, nationwide charity The Together Project believes that intergenerational connection is the key to tackling social isolation and enhancing wellbeing. Our flagship programme, Songs & Smiles, has already had a huge impact on the lives of older people, young children, and their families in care homes and retirement settings across the UK.
A young child interacting with a resident at a Songs & Smiles session.
Award-winning
Recently, we were honoured to win the Best Partnership Award at the Senior Housing Awards, thanks to our incredible collaboration with Esther Randall Court, one of Riverside/One Housing’s retirement settings. This recognition highlights the life-changing impact our partnerships can have on residents and families alike.
From left to right: Nadja Ranes - The Together Project, Mohammed Khan - Riverside/One Housing, Theresa Rendel - The Together Project, Libby Bollan - Riverside/One Housing.
What is Songs & Smiles?
Songs & Smiles is an intergenerational music group that brings together children aged 0-4, their grownups, and older residents. Each week, they gather in your communal lounge for an hour of singing, movement, play, and friendship, creating a space filled with laughter, joy, and meaningful connection. Music is a powerful way to stimulate memory, encourage physical movement, and foster emotional wellbeing in older adults, while young children develop empathy, confidence, and social skills.
Young children and their grownups interacting with residents at an Esther Randall Court Songs & Smiles session.
Why partner with us?
By partnering with The Together Project to bring Songs & Smiles to your care home or retirement setting, you will:
Enhance resident wellbeing: Music and intergenerational interactions have been shown to reduce loneliness, improve mood, and promote mental and physical health in older people. Songs & Smiles offers a regular, structured opportunity for residents to engage with the wider community and enjoy meaningful interactions.
Build community connections: Songs & Smiles not only connects older people with little ones, but strengthens relationships between residents, staff, and local families. The sense of community created by these sessions lasts far beyond the hour we spend together.
Improve quality of life: We’ve seen firsthand the joy and excitement that Songs & Smiles brings to older residents. Many have told us that these sessions give them a sense of purpose and remind them of happy memories. As a retirement setting or care home, partnering with us shows a commitment to improving the quality of life for your residents.
Positive recognition: Partnering with a nationally recognised programme like Songs & Smiles is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to innovative, person-centred care. It’s also an opportunity to join an award-winning initiative—like Esther Randall Court did.
“As the Manager of Esther Randall Court, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of this incredible partnership on our residents.
The collaboration between Esther Randall Court and The Together Project has been exceptional. The Together Project has seamlessly integrated Songs & Smiles into our community, demonstrating a deep understanding of our residents' needs. This partnership has not only enriched the lives of our older adults but also strengthened the bonds within our wider community.”
Mohammad Khan, General Manager, Esther Randall Court
Join us in spreading joy
We’re always looking to partner with forward-thinking retirement settings and care homes that share our vision of creating joyful, connected communities. By working with The Together Project (with various funding options available), you'll help foster relationships that benefit both your residents and the families who participate. It’s a win-win for everyone involved!
A young child and their grownup interact with a resident at a Songs & Smiles session.
What’s next?
If you’re ready to bring Songs & Smiles to your community, we’d love to hear from you! As a charity, our work relies on grants, retirement settings/care homes in your area registering their interest, and the recruitment of Group Leaders.
Please register your interest, spread the word to other settings, and let us know of any funding opportunities in your area. Our team will be in touch to learn more about how we can create a bespoke partnership tailored to your residents’ needs and begin the Songs & Smiles process in your area.
Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of older people and young families. Let’s spread more smiles, one song at a time!