Haringey Intergenerational Podcast (HIP)

Bringing generations together, one story at a time.

The Haringey Intergenerational Podcast (HIP) is an innovative pilot project developed by The Together Project and Creative Engagement Services, funded by Haringey Council.

It brought together young people aged 14–18 from Bruce Grove Youth Space and older people aged 72–85 from the local community to listen, learn, and co-create a series of intergenerational podcasts.

Over eight weeks, they shared powerful personal stories, explored life across the decades, and discovered what they had in common. The result? Moving conversations, new connections, and a template for meaningful community engagement.

Why we created HIP

Too often, young people and older adults exist in separate social spaces with few chances for meaningful connection. This pilot set out to change that, using podcasting as a tool for dialogue, confidence-building, and mutual respect.

At its heart, HIP aimed to:

  • Reduce isolation among older adults by connecting them with younger people in their local community and valuing their stories

  • Empower young people with skills, confidence and curiosity

  • Strengthen community cohesion through creative collaboration

The impact

HIP proved that with the right environment, intergenerational storytelling can shift perspectives and change lives:

  • 100% of young people said they really enjoyed it

  • 100% of older participants want to take part again

  • Participants reported increased confidence, community connection, and mutual understanding

Young people also gained digital, communication and presentation skills, while older people felt valued, respected, and reconnected with their local community.

“It was an adventure for me. I hadn’t heard of the youth space around the corner, and now I’ve made friends there.”
— Sonny (85) one of the older participants
“We’re always told we’re creative, but hearing it from someone who’s lived their life, that meant everything.”
— Almaz (18) one of the younger participants

A model for future delivery

We’ve created a replicable, scalable model that could benefit communities across the UK. It supports local authority goals around:

  • Reducing loneliness

  • Youth development

  • Intergenerational cohesion

  • Community wellbeing

  • Inclusive arts and culture access

We’re now seeking opportunities to bring our intergenerational podcasting project to new areas. With the right support, we’re confident this pilot can become a national programme, tailored to each community’s unique needs.

Want to bring this to your area?

We’re keen to hear from local councils, funders and delivery partners who’d like to explore the HIP model.

Get in touch: hello@thetogetherproject.org.uk