Kissing it Better

Britain is facing a crisis of loneliness – and young people are hardest hit. According to the independent think tank The Centre for Social Justice, almost three-quarters of 18-24 year-olds feel lonely and isolated. Meanwhile, Age UK reports that over a million older people go for more than a month without speaking to a friend, neighbour or family member. It’s our mission to bring all these lonely people together.

For the past year, we’ve been running Comedy Script Reading Clubs in care homes and older people’s community groups – now researchers from the University of Swansea are working with us to unpack the power of this unique programme. Scientists think that taking part in these fun and challenging sessions may help fend off dementia and cognitive decline.

Our intergenerational projects would not be possible without the generosity and support of our brilliant funders. This summer, we’ve made some new funding friends, and renewed our partnership with some old and very valued ones.

This June, KiB gave would-be medics the chance to take part in a unique work-experience day. Eight students spent a day at Warwick hospital, meeting patients, sharing stories, and learning from healthcare professionals.

Primary school children across the country are joining our drive to help older people feel happier and more connected to their community. Thousands of 4-11 year olds have now taken part in our ‘When Great Granny Came to Stay’ workshops, learning how to share stories and bring joy into the lives of people who grew up in very different times.

Kissing it Better’s unique scheme lets you gain valuable volunteering experience – perfect for your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award & UCAS statement. Taking part in our programme will also boost your CV and enhance your understanding of the challenges of healthcare, especially linked to the care of older people.

Since the start of the pandemic, we’ve been running Zoom comedy drama groups for older people. What started as a simple idea to lift lockdown loneliness has turned into an ongoing programme that gives older people the chance to learn new skills and meet new friends … all from the comfort of their own home.

Kissing it Better’s unique scheme lets you gain valuable volunteering experience remotely – and when rules allow, face-to-face – perfect for your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award & UCAS statement. Taking part in our programme will also boost your CV and enhance your understanding of the challenges of healthcare, especially linked to the care of older people.

Children’s art can make you marvel, make you laugh and make your day. Now that joy is lighting up a ward at Warwick Hospital, thanks to local schoolchildren.

Happy New Year, Kibbers! Before we launch headlong into the new one, let’s take a moment to look back at just some of the highlights of 2021. In no particular order, here are some of the things that made us smile last year.