In support of Global Intergenerational Week 2026, an arts project has been taking place at Ruthin Community Hospital involving patients and Year 9 pupils from Ysgol Brynhyfryd. 

The patients who took part in the activity look forward to their visits each week and enjoy their creative work supported by the students, who they get to talk to and share stories and insights.

The project was led by professional artist Jude Wood, on behalf of DLL’s Community Arts Team.  Jude has been supported by Joanna Roberts, Activities Co-ordinator at the hospital, who has been delighted with the positive outcome of the group sessions.  The project has been co-ordinated by DLL Community Arts team and funded by a DVSC Dementia Awareness grant.

Global Intergenerational Week runs between 24th and 30th April, and aims to celebrate and promote meaningful connections between generations, addressing issues like social isolation and fostering intergenerational friendships.

Rhyl Sky Tower, Rhyl Pavilion Theatre, 1891 Restaurant and Bar, the Events Arena waterfall, Ruthin Craft Centre, and Denbighshire coastal shelters will all be lighting up in pink throughout Global Intergenerational Week. 

The project has been supported by Ysgol Brynhyfryd, through teacher Carl Murray who selected the students to take part. 

Mr Murray said: “Some of the conversations that take place are delightful and the kindness and empathy shown by our students towards those in a vulnerable position are so heart-warming to see.”

Before visiting the hospital for the weekly sessions, the pupils all attended a Dementia Friends session held at the school, to help them understand more about the condition and have an awareness of how it affects people.

Artist Jude Wood said: “As some of the patients have long stays in hospital, the pupils have had the opportunity to build deeper connections with them, their families and the staff. Our creative sessions together have been something to look forward to for everyone involved.”

Jamie Groves, DLL Managing Director said “2026 is the sixth year of Global Intergenerational Week, and once again DLL is proud to be involved in such a creative project, which aims to get young people familiar with working with older people, and also gives them a greater understanding of living with dementia.  Numerous studies demonstrate that older people respond to having young people spend time and show an interest in them and that this innovative project benefits both the older people taking part, some of whom are living with dementia, and the young students working with them. Projects such as these are a shining example of growing true intergenerational relationships and DLL will be lighting buildings in pink throughout Global Intergenerational Week, to further support this inspiring cause.”