PLACE-EE Project

Linking Generations NI were pleased to have been involved in the completed PLACE-EE project.

The goal of this European funded project was helping people in rural communities be more connected to their communities and to learn computer, internet and digital skills through a ‘skills exchange’ with young people in their area.

The Partners:

• Ulster University, Northern Ireland (Lead Partner)
• Fermanagh and Omagh District Council
• Public Health Agency Northern Ireland
• Umea University, Sweden
• Fjarðabyggð, Iceland
• Limerick City and County Council, Republic of Ireland
• Skelleftea kommun, Sweden

The key objectives of the PLACE-EE project:

• Develop a participatory model of engagement with older people in remote and rural areas, using creative arts to assess health and social needs and use of public services.

• Exchange between older and younger citizens.

• Build flourishing social and cultural capital among older people through active involvement in creative and cultural activities. These activities and products will be documented and archived.

• Establish a transnational forum for cultural exchange for older citizens (and young counterparts) across the NPA.

• Document and evaluate a model of transferable, sustainable best practice and learning for connected ageing across all regions in the NPA.
• Disseminate the PLACE-EE Model across NPA regions, health and social care organisations and demonstrate opportunities for ICT services and app development.

LGNI were able to share materials previously used by us in similar projects to contribute to the production of an Educational Toolkit. This was to serve to educate students on the PLACE-EE project and introduce the concept of intergenerational skill exchange with elderly individuals.

Content included:

• PLACE-EE project background
• Digital exclusion and older people;
• Rural living and access to services;
• Skill exchange;
• Archiving culture and heritage.
• A brief introduction to older people and their assets and needs
• Intergenerational practice:

What it is and potential benefits for both groups (connectivity and reduced isolation for elders; skill and knowledge development for younger participants.)

How it can be applied to PLACE-EE.

• LGNI were involved in the delivery of Age Awareness Preparation sessions to participating pupils in the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council area:
• St Johns College, Dromore, Omagh
• Killyhommen Primary School, Boho, Enniskillen
• Derrygonnelly Primary School, Derrygonnelly, Enniskillen
• LGNI also attended Partner meetings and events, offered advice and promoted the project.