Could you help the BBC?

18/12/2008

Researchers for the BBC are currently producing a documentary for BBC1 based on schemes where older and younger people live together. The idea for the programme is that a young person between the age of 25 and 35, who is living at home with their parents, moves in with an older person for one week. The hope is that the older person will be able to pass on advice and life experiences to their younger housemate and encourage them to become more independent.

So - the BBC are looking for older men and women to take part. Ideally they would like people aged 75 plus who are living independently and alone. The BBC are hoping that the older person might ask the younger ones to do things that their parents currently do for them - like the laundry, cooking or shopping (so you would get things done for you!). They are particularly keen to speak to 'charismatic characters' who are still active. One idea the BBC particularly wish to explore is that older people often highly value their independence - whereas many younger people haven't yet come to appreciate it fully and still depend on their parents for the most basic of things.



This documentary also aims to challenge the limited stereotypes of older people currently seen on TV, and instead show them as truly valuable members of society that today's young people today can learn from. It would also be a unique opportunity to break down some of the barriers and misunderstandings that can exist between younger and older people.
 
Filming is scheduled to take place over a week in late January or early February and promises to be both fun and interesting for both parties. The BBC will be thoroughly vetting the younger people before the programme, including speaking to their friends and family for character references and carrying out a Criminal Records Bureau check. All the older persons expenses will be fully covered including any extra charges incurred for heating, electricity and food.
 
If you are remotely interested or have more questions please GET IN TOUCH!  The BBC just want to chat initially, so there is no commitment. Please call Rachel Millar, Development Researcher, Factual London Development, Vision Productions, BBC on 07792749730 or email abigail.williams@bbc.co.uk