In 2010, the Department of Education set up Generations Together – a national pilot project to encourage intergenerational volunteering, bring people together in mutually beneficial activities and promote greater understanding and respect between generations.

Soul Soup was part of Generations Together Gateshead and it provided a creative approach to bringing communities together.

Birtley Library joined forces with Birtley Heritage Group and the 5th Birtley Scouts to create a new library garden. The groups wanted to encourage increased use of the library and an interest in Birtley’s heritage, instilling a sense of belonging and identity amongst the young and old.

Helena Seget was invited to hold workshops with members of the Heritage Group and the Scouts, where they worked together, and also commissioned by Birtley Heritage Group to work with them to create a permanent centrepiece for the garden. Birtley Landscape records both historical and personal responses to living in Birtley. It is on permanent display at Birtley Library.

Soul Soup was created and managed by Gateshead Council’s Arts Development Team.