Intergenerational connection is a powerful public health resource

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is marking Global Intergenerational Week (GIW) by celebrating the vital role that connections between generations play in improving health, wellbeing and community resilience across Northern Ireland.

Taking place from 24 to 30 April 2026, GIW connects 14 country leads for a global campaign bringing together individuals, community groups, organisations and governments to champion intergenerational practice and highlight the value of creating opportunities for younger and older people to connect, share experiences and learn from one another.

Dianne McIntyre, Regional Lead for Ageing Well at the Public Health Agency, said: “Intergenerational connection is a powerful public health resource. When people of different ages come together, everyone benefits.

“Strong social connections across age groups are associated with reduced loneliness and social isolation, improved mental wellbeing, increased physical activity and stronger, more resilient communities. For older people, meaningful social contact can help protect against depression and cognitive decline, while younger people benefit from increased confidence, empathy and a stronger sense of belonging.

“Global Intergenerational Week is an important opportunity to recognise the positive impact these relationships have on health and wellbeing, and to encourage more people to get involved in activities where generations connect rather than remain separate.

“Age Friendly Coordinators across Northern Ireland are doing vital work to support inclusive, connected communities. Working within councils they play a key role in making communities better places to grow older. Their work supports participation, connection and inclusion, reducing loneliness and helping people of all ages to live healthier, more connected lives.”

Linking Generations NI is the official country lead for GIW26 and members of the campaigns Executive Team. Since 2015, the PHA has provided funding to Linking Generations Northern Ireland who coordinate a Northern-Ireland-wide network, providing an advice and support service, and training and small grants programmes. These activities create meaningful connections between generations and organisations that might not otherwise work together, with lasting benefits for individuals and communities.

Vicki Titterington, from Linking Generations Northern Ireland (LGNI), welcomes the focus on intergenerational working: “Linking Generations Northern Ireland (LGNI) are delighted to see growing support each year for Global Intergenerational Week and for intergenerational approaches more broadly. The key message of this year’s campaign is clear: intergenerational practice isn’t just nice to have — it’s essential. For LGNI, intergenerational work is not a one‑off activity, but an approach that adds real value to work already happening across our communities and plays a vital role in supporting age‑friendly places.

“LGNI works closely with local council Age‑Friendly Coordinators to promote opportunities for meaningful and sustained intergenerational engagement. Our evidence shows that bringing generations together creates opportunities for shared learning, improves mental wellbeing and self‑confidence, reduces ageism, builds friendships and social connections, and helps people of all ages feel valued and included in their communities.

“Practitioners leading this work consistently highlight their enthusiasm for sustaining intergenerational activity, recognising the positive impact it has on both people and practice. Global Intergenerational Week shines a spotlight on what can be achieved when generations come together, and there are so many inspiring examples across Northern Ireland. LGNI has created a range of resources to support and inspire participation, available via the Linking Generations Northern Ireland Facebook page and website.”

The PHA is encouraging anyone interested in getting involved to visit Linking Generations NI GIW26 Webpage to sign up as a supporter, download free ideas and communications resources and check out the Global Events Schedule: www.linkinggenerationsni.com/global-intergenerational-week-2026/

You can also check with your local council, community organisations or Age Friendly Coordinator to see if they are running any GIW26 events and initiatives during Global Intergenerational Week.