YOUNGSTERS from a Cwmbran school met people living at an over-50s retirement complex as part of a police project to “build respect between generations”.

The visit by Year 9 and 10 pupils from Croesyceiliog Comprehensive School to the Woodland Court home was part of a police and crime commissioner-funded project aimed at breaking down any “unhelpful stereotypes” that may exist, said the PCC’s office.

The youngsters took part in games with the residents of the Bron Afon-run complex.

Bron Afon were awarded £2,000 from the Commissioner’s Partnership Fund, which opened last September, for a project which aims to help them tackle anti-social behaviour.

Up to £100,000 in total was made available for projects aimed at helping to prevent crime and address anti-social behaviour, of which 25 organisations were successful in being given funding.

Sam Notley, Bron Afon’s youth engagement support officer, said: “This project provides a great opportunity to bring together the younger and more senior members of the community in order to challenge perceived stereotypes between the age groups.

“The aim of the project is to deliver fun, interactive workshops which will focus on highlighting similarities rather than difference, and will cover topics such as stereotypes, experiences and respect.”

Shelley Bosson, chief executive for Gwent’s Police and Crime Commissioner, who attended the event, said such projects “play an important role in developing mutual respect between different generations” and said both the youngsters and the older people “can learn a great deal from each other” and learn to respect each other’s values.

“We want fewer victims of crime in our communities and we recognise the fantastic role that these projects can play,” she said.