An unlikely collaboration between teenagers and elderly residents could prevent disaffected youths falling into a life of crime.
Hounslow's Intercontinental Charity Organisation (ICO), set up four years ago to help people across Hounslow, Hillingdon and Ealing for whom English is not their first language, has just been awarded nearly £10,000 from radio station Choice FM for such a scheme.
It wants to recruit 35 volunteers aged between 16 and 25 to spend a couple of hours a week helping pensioners across the borough in return for their advice and experience.
Speaking from his office in Alexandra Road, ICO's director David Hassan, said: "Everyone's so busy today and pensioners can't always rely on family and friends to help them out.
"These volunteers will be able to help them do their shopping, visit the doctor or just enjoy a nice chit-chat.
"In return, they can share their experience with the youths and advise them to take their opportunities and steer clear of trouble."
Elmi Issack, who came to Hounslow from Somalia three years ago, said the project had made a huge difference to his life.
The 74-year-old retired businessman said: "It's a big relief to know there's someone to call on when I'm sick or need shopping done. Before I learned about this charity I didn't know where to turn."
For more about the ICO and its volunteering scheme, call Mr Hassan on 020 8577 6488 or email: ico_15@hotmail.com
