Buttermilk & Maple has launched new initiative, The Human Library, in partnership with the Royal British Legion, which aims to connect the old and the young,combating loneliness and enabling story-telling between the two generations this Christmas. Buttermilk & Maple plans on hosting the Human Library once a month in its warm and inviting environment where veterans can share their stories with Bristol’s youth – building community spirit and alleviating loneliness in the winter months.
Buttermilk & Maple recruited its young participants from local schools, youth clubs and community centres around Bristol. The first event was a great success with young people attending from Young Bristol, MAYK and Bristol Youth Council. The Royal British Legion brought members of its Bristol community and parties from both sides tucked into a complimentary lunch; served with a side of history.
Alongside the Royal British Legion, Buttermilk & Maple will be using social media to profile both the veterans and the young individuals to share what they have learned throughout the day. The aim of the social profiling is to encourage more of Buttermilk & Maple’s younger customers to consider giving their time and support to the Royal British Legion and take an interest in the lives of the elderly.
Daniel Webster-Clamp, Bar Manager at Buttermilk & Maple said: “As a child my Grandfather’s stories of war and comradery fascinated me. The spirit and pride he told those stories with has stuck with me to this day. It’s important that the young people of our community remember the sacrifices our veterans gave to ensure we can live our lives with as much freedom as we do. We are excited to host The Human Library project and think that both generations will gain a lot from the experience. There is so much both the veterans and the young can learn from each other, I know how interested the veterans will be in the lives and issues of the younger generation.”
Sue Potepa from the Royal British Legion, Bristol said: “It’s really important for the young community of Bristol to have this opportunity. Our veterans have played a part in many incredible stories and we don’t want these to be forgotten. Sharing these stories over a lovely lunch is a great way to involve young people in their rich history. We’re really pleased to be able to pass this opportunity to our veterans and we hope both generations take something special away from this”