Spirit of Youth tackles social isolation in the elderly, by taking ten primary school children into a local residential care home.

Over the course of ten weeks, the children and adults explore a Shakespeare play together. Under GSC’s guidance they work together to create a 15-20 minute version of the play which will then be performed to family, friends and the wider community.

“Over 60 per cent of residents in care homes never receive visitors, which has a damaging impact on  their emotional and physical well-being, even life expectancy. Children are open-minded and have an infectious energy, which will allow both generations to challenge and enjoy themselves in a risk-free environment.” Bath University

Spirit of Youth provides a unique opportunity for the young and old to form new bonds and relationships, as they work towards a common-goal. Our participants share their own experiences and stories, as they convert Shakespeare’s words into their own. The elderly and the children alike are able to challenge and enjoy themselves in a risk-free environment.

“This project has exceeded all of our expectations so far. The residents are having a great time working with the school children. We’re looking forward to the final performance” Queen Elizabeth Care Home

Spirit of Youth (September 2018 - April 2019) is supported by The Community Foundation for Surrey.

1 in 3 adult mental health conditions relate directly to childhood experiences. It’s not only the child’s well-being that must be taken into account, either. As a child suffers, so does their family, though they rarely receive any kind of formal care.

With My Eyes invites teenagers who have been excluded from school, along with their parents, to join us for weekly drama sessions. Divided into their peer groups, the participants create a piece of theatre for a final group-sharing, allowing both generations to connect through drama.

“My big sister has been so smiley since she has been with GSC (I don’t know what GSC means, but she says it all the time). So thank you for making her happy, because she is normally really sad all the time.”

With My Eyes is led by two GSC facilitators working in separate rooms. One works with the children, while the other works with the parents, providing each group with a new social support network. Each facilitator is also assisted by a qualified dramatherapist. Actors will also join the groups for various sessions, providing a chance for the more reluctant members of the group to explore the sessions with their aid.

For more information, please see our With My Eyes - Information Sheet (pdf)

With My Eyes (April-July 2019) is supported by The Big Lottery Fund and The High Sheriff Youth Awards.