The Unexpected Power of Babies in London's Care Homes
When a toddler sang nursery rhymes to her grandfather who had been rendered silent by dementia, three unexpected words emerged: "She's beautiful." This poignant moment illustrates the transformative power of bringing generations together, a power now harnessed by an East London charity operating in 70 care homes across London every single week.
From Loneliness to Connection: The Birth of The Together Project
In 2017, Louise Golden, on maternity leave, experienced profound feelings of loneliness and isolation. Visiting her aunt in a care home, she recognized similar emotions in elderly residents. Yet, when she brought babies around them, she witnessed an incredible uptick in energy—they would "come alive." This observation sparked the creation of Songs and Smiles, which evolved into The Together Project, a registered charity dedicated to combating loneliness and age segregation through innovative programs.
Alexa Sutheran, 42, discovered the charity after seeing Louise nominated for an award in Walthamstow. In 2025, Alexa took over as CEO, driven by a personal experience. "My grandad had dementia, and I took my daughter to see him. They said he wouldn't speak, but when she sang on his knee, he managed to say 'she's beautiful.' That's when I knew there was an impact," she recounted.
How Songs and Smiles Sessions Work
The sessions are designed for children up to four years old and are structured to stimulate conversations between elderly residents and the young participants. "We sing hello to everybody by name. Often, someone who seems asleep will come alive when they hear their name—it means a lot to them," Alexa explained. This approach helps break down barriers, especially for those living with dementia who may have forgotten their own names.
Beyond singing, the sessions foster a sense of community. Volunteers and parents participate in activities like sharing cups of tea, where elderly residents often offer advice, such as tips for teething children. "It gives them a chance to share their wisdom and feel valued," Alexa added.
Expanding Reach and Facing Challenges
Currently, The Together Project runs sessions in 70 care homes weekly, actively encouraging parents to attend for free. The charity also supports refugee parents in settling into their communities. However, post-pandemic funding has become a significant challenge. "We are looking for more funding because we are currently short. Priorities have shifted, and loneliness among older people, which was a focus during the pandemic, has become less of a priority," Alexa noted.
Despite financial hurdles, the charity's team—comprised entirely of working mothers—has built a strong, honest dynamic. "We've created an environment with a work-life balance, which is crucial for our mission," Alexa emphasized.
The Lasting Impact of Intergenerational Bonds
The Together Project's work highlights a critical need in society: combating loneliness across generations. By bringing babies into care homes, they not only uplift elderly residents but also provide parents with a supportive community. As Alexa reflected, "It's not about dumping loved ones in care homes; it's about maintaining connections. Our sessions help people feel connected, valued, and alive."
With plans to expand and secure sustainable funding, this East London charity continues to prove that the simplest interactions—like a child's song—can spark profound joy and healing in the most unexpected places.
