New Friendships Formed, Thanks to TAFE Queensland Community Initiative

Age is proving no barrier to the strong friendships which are blooming at Mercy Place Cairns (Bethlehem), thanks to a new partnership with TAFE Queensland’s Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) team.

TAFE Queensland’s ‘Connecting with Community’ initiative has seen residents at the Cairns home striking up friendships with migrant and refugee students as part of an intergenerational partnership, which aims to encourage companionship and connections between young and old in the community.

The initiative sees the participants visit Mercy Place Cairns (Bethlehem) residents bi-monthly, where they participate in art and craft activities, as well as games. 

“Each time we have visited Mercy Health, the students have been a little nervous upon arrival—but as soon as we leave the centre, the first thing they want to know is when they can visit again,” said TAFE Queensland educator Pam Tuck.

“They can’t stop talking about their time with the residents and, without a doubt, it will be an experience that will stay with them for a very long time.”

Mercy Place Cairns (Bethlehem) General Manager Precinct, Zubair Coovadia, said the benefits of the partnership extended both ways, with the students and residents involved genuinely enjoying their time together and forming strong bonds.

“We’re delighted by how well our intergenerational partnership with our local TAFE Queensland team has been received, by both the residents and students alike,” he said.  

“Mercy Health is focused on bringing together young and old across the country, with secondary school students in some of our Victorian homes participating in various programs, and now this TAFE partnership in Cairns.

“We believe that even 20-somethings need a grandparent some of the and those involved have undoubtedly loved spending times with residents, many of whom share some of the same interests, particularly reading and music.” 

Numerous studies demonstrate that that intergenerational programs are beneficial for all generations, with improvements cited in the mental health, emotional wellbeing and physical health of participants.

The AMEP is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs and delivers free English language lessons to support migrants and refugees in their settlement journey. In Queensland, the AMEP is delivered by TAFE Queensland.

Click here to find out more about Mercy Health