Making Generation R shows resilience during lockdown

Making Generation R (MGR) is proving its resilience. 

Making Generation R, which trains veterans to deliver their life stories to help build resilience in pupils and first responders, has been running a series of online initiatives to support skill levels and maintain connections in lockdown. One of these offerings is live sessions via a Zoom link to groups and organisations.

More than 40 players, coaches and staff from the England Rugby Sevens squad were ‘bowled over’ by former 101 Engineer Regiment’s Jack Cummings, who gave a 20-minute talk about being wounded by an IED in Afghanistan and how he overcame the dark days that followed.

Meanwhile, MGR’s Resilience Resource Packs are proving an effective support. Schools can access videos of Members telling their stories as well as online lesson plans and feedback forms. So far, this digital version of MGR has reached more than 28,000 pupils.

“We have been very busy with the Members, running virtual sessions that are still being delivered to schools online via digital packs,” said Ian Waller, Blesma’s Operations Director. “They have been well received and it is great to see Members and their stories still having an impact even though they are not able to physically get into schools.”

Along with the webinars and Resilience Resource Packs, the ‘Making Connections’ workshops, delivered by Member Nerys Pearce and two MGR trainers, have brought together 23 Members, spouses and carers to talk, share stories, and develop connections across a regular Zoom call.

The sessions have created waves of connections as Members use the techniques they learn to stage separate group calls with friends and family. “It’s been brilliant,” added Ian.

“The sessions have focused on being comfortable with the technology and using it to make and keep connections. We have seen friendships blossom as people have set up their own Zoom sessions outside the group. There have been virtual yoga and gym sessions, with workshop members and others. It has been a very positive environment – completely free of talk about coronavirus – and Members have enjoyed that as well as being able to share stories and improve communication skills.”

Elsewhere, the 75 Blesma Members who have been MGR trained have also benefited from a weekly MGR at Home session, which has allowed them to keep developing their storytelling skills and stay in touch with each other. It is clear that, in these times of self-isolation and social distancing, the power of connecting with others is becoming more important to our mental health and wellbeing than ever.