Technology Exchange

Technology Exchange Logo websize

The Technology Exchange project is being run from Gateshead Older Peoples Assembly in Felling and is responsible for bringing under 25s and over 50s together to learn about different technologies.  The technologies involved have so far been mobile phones, digital cameras, pedometers, the Nintendo Wii, computers and the internet.  The young people are responsible for tutoring the older people at various events and coffee mornings throughout Gateshead. 

Gateshead Older People’s Assembly Generations Together Project is coordinated by Stephen Scullion.  Stephen has worked in many sectors over the last 35 years; from British Forces, professional chef, professional football coach and many more, which enables him to have good grounding for working with a variety of people.  Stephen’s role is to establish relations between 16-25 year olds with 50+ year olds, working with new and old technology, but perhaps, more importantly; to help to break down the barriers and perceptions that both generations may have of each other. 

The young people have come from a variety of backgrounds to date, we have worked with:

  • Young fire-fighters
  • Princes Trust Teams
  • NEETA
  • Turning Point
  • Eye of the Fly
  • Culture Shock
  • The Duke of Edinburgh Awards

We are in the process of working in collaboration with:

  • Rockcorps
  • Age UK ‘itea’ events
  • Streetwise Choir
  • Positive Images
  • Cumbrian Blues
  • Connexions
  • LINk Mental Health Group
  • Time to Change
  • Sporting Equals ‘Fit as a Fiddle’
  • Refugee Voices
  • …and various interdenominational/interfaith groups.

We engage with young people from any background and give them the opportunity to improve their self-esteem, confidence and a greater understanding of the older generation.  This has proved to be a valuable experience for them as a stepping stone to employment, and most importantly to have fun and mix with people that they wouldn’t normally get the chance to.

The older people involved in the project are from all over Gateshead and its environs.  Anybody over 50 is welcome to come to events or become a volunteer.

Quote from volunteer:

“I have enjoyed myself working as a volunteer with Generations Together, as it has helped me to improve my social skills and helped me to see how we can all help each other.”  A project volunteer

Click here to find out about past, current, and future Technology events that are happening across Gateshead.

 If any groups are interested in taking part in these activities then please contact the Technology Exchange Project Officer:

Stephen Scullion

Generations Together (Technology Exchange) Project

Gateshead Older Peoples Assembly

65 High Street

Felling

Gateshead

NE10 9LU

0191 438 17 21 (B)

07903 988 780 (M)

 http://www.gatesheadolderpeoplesassembly.co.uk/home2/