InterConnect links older volunteers with women's refuges in London. Older people participate in play sessions and can mentor young women and children in Hestia's domestic abuse refuges, helping to provide them with new skills and positive role models. Older people are trained and gain new skills, while at the same time widening their social networks, making new friends and gaining a greater understanding of young people. To donate to InterCononect please state this in your message.

Older people are one of the most at risk groups in our society. They often have low incomes, are socially isolated and run the risk of developing associated mental health problems such as depression. Domestic abuse victims living in our refuges are also often at risk of social isolation, having moved to a new area and left behind their family and friends. Children in our refuges are also at risk of developing educational and behavioural problems as a result of the trauma they experience.

We link older volunteers with victims of domestic abuse. The volunteers gain new skills, wider social networks and the satisfaction of volunteering with women and children. They receive comprehensive induction training on and gain a greater understanding of young people. Young women and children have access to play sessions and educational support, are provided with positive role models and make links with their new local community.