A new phoneline is set to be trialled for young people to get advice and guidance – from the elderly. The mini call centre will open its lines tomorrow (March 27), between 10am and 4pm, to enable young adults to access pearls of wisdom from the older generations.
Whether you’ve got a dilemma, are feeling lonely, or simply need some relationship advice, a quick call could be just the ticket to gain some perspective on the matter.
Voluntary staff will be working a six-hour shift, and will be supplied with endless tea, coffee, biscuits, and ready meals, in exchange for their wisdom.
The phoneline is being trialled by meal delivery company, Parsley Box, which takes orders via a call centre as well as online, to better cater to its customers – whose average age is 76.
Ian Morrison, from the brand, said: “So often, it’s made out that older adults are looking for someone to speak to – but we believe there’s so much knowledge and experience they can offer to the younger generations.
“So, we wanted to try something unique, and give young people the opportunity to pick up the phone to a welcoming older adult, on-hand and ready to provide advice on whatever topic they choose.
“Depending on the success of the trial, we could certainly look to make it a regular thing, as it’s a win-win for all generations.”
It comes as research of 500 adults, aged over 60 years old, found half of this age group (49 percent) wish they could give advice to younger generations, on topics ranging from financial planning to self-confidence.
Health and wellness, coping with change, and relationship advice were other varying topics they felt they could provide nuggets of wisdom for.
However, 39 percent are rarely asked for advice by younger generations – with 23 percent having never encountered this at all.
Interestingly, the need is more than matched by the desire to give – as a further study of 500 young adults, aged 18 to 30, revealed 74 percent wished they asked older adults for guidance more frequently.
And 84 percent of this younger generation feel the wisdom of their elders should be called upon more than it is, according to the data from OnePoll.
However, young adults stop short of asking due to potential differing views between generations (42 percent) – while 36 percent worry their problem will seem silly.
And 26 percent lack the confidence to ask, with the same number unable to remember the last time they went to someone over 60 for their thoughts – despite 58 percent believing their life experience makes them perfect to lend advice.
Some of the top reasons that retirees are seen as a great source of guidance include them having dealt with many situations themselves, having wisdom in abundance, and being able to give a wider perspective.
The trial will run between 10am and 4pm on Wednesday, and can be accessed by calling the number 0800 488 0604.
Ian Morrison, for Parsley Box, added: “The research clearly shows there’s an appetite for the phoneline, which is great.
“We hope young adults can take the leap to get something off their chest with someone who is willing to listen and provide their thoughts in a friendly and positive way.
“This is also a great way to provide older adults with a feeling of purpose and self-worth, when sometimes it can be a little lonely if people overlook you for those key conversations – particularly when you have so much wisdom to impart.”
