How a community project sparked an unlikely Exeter friendship

International students at the University of Exeter are forging meaningful friendships with older members of the Exeter community through a heartwarming new project that bridges generations - one video call, train ticket and life lesson at a time.

The Tech-and-Life Pal scheme pairs students, many of whom are new to the UK, with older people in the area who want support using modern digital tools. In return, the students receive valuable life advice, cultural insights, and the kind of warm welcome that’s hard to find on a smartphone screen.

Launched by Dr Yuxi Heluo, assistant professor at the University of Exeter Business School, the initiative began as a research trial and has quickly grown into something more impactful.

“The older people share their life wisdom with students to support them with life skills and life experience,” said Dr Heluo. “At the same time, the students help older people with how to use smartphones and tablets or help them with things such as how to check NHS records, buy tickets, or order groceries online.”

The dual-purpose scheme is tackling loneliness at both ends of the age spectrum. According to the government’s University Mental Health Charter, 90% of students in the UK report feeling lonely - a figure that’s especially acute for international students. At the same time, Age UK has long highlighted the barriers older people face when it comes to embracing digital technology.

For Exeter student Jessie He, the project has made a lasting impression. She formed a close bond with Sue Wright, a resident of Exmouth, who helped her settle into life in the UK while Jessie helped her navigate IT and digital tasks. Their friendship has gone beyond the project - the pair now visit one another regularly.

Sue said the experience changed her view of today’s students: “They’re not all just staring at their phones. Jessie has been a joy - helpful, kind and curious about life.”

Other participants have echoed this sentiment, describing how the programme helped break down stereotypes, boost confidence, and restore a sense of belonging.

Dr Heluo hopes the success of the project will inspire further initiatives like it. “Communication between generations is crucial for a sustainable and healthy society,” she said. “It’s about mutual respect, shared learning and building friendships that last.”

With students swapping tech tips for life advice and seniors opening their doors, and tablets, to new friendships, the Tech-and-Life Pal project proves that wisdom and WiFi make a pretty powerful pairing.