A shelf with a sound system, family photos, a lamp and some flowers next to a white piano.

Let's North Sea! Gerald's story

24/04/2023

2 minutes

Gerald, aged 94, lives all by himself which can be lonely at times. But thanks to the I2I project, he is able to maintain good contact with his family even when they are far away.

The sixth video in our Let’s North Sea series takes us to Arendal in Norway. As partner in the Isolation to Inclusion (I2I) project, the municipality is helping elderly people feel more connected despite their shrinking network and restricted ability to get out and about.

I2I addresses the pervasive problem of loneliness which can seriously affect people's mental and physical health. More than 75 million Europeans only see their friends and family once per month or less.

The project explores a range of initiatives to help people connect, including among others community walks and events, DIY clubs for young people, and special initiatives for the elderly.

Chapter 6: Gerald's story

Our Let’s North Sea video series, produced by Canadian journalist Shane Woodford, puts the spotlight on the invaluable work our projects are doing. Each video tells a story about one specific project.

The story of Gerald, a widower aged 94, captures the essence of I2I and provides an example of how the project makes a difference in people's lives.

Watch the video:

All about I2I

Learn much more about I2I and find contact details on their website.

Explore I2I's website

Projects boosting liveability

Explore all North Sea projects promoting liveability in the North Sea Region.

Check out the highlights