Vanessa Feltz says cross generational friendships ‘among the most rewarding’

Presenter Vanessa Feltz praises cross generational friendships as some of the most rewarding, as new research reveals that six in 10 Brits maintain friendships across age groups

TV presenter Vanessa Feltz has opened up about the surprising bond she shares with her former Strictly Come Dancing partner, James Jordan, revealing how much she has learned from him despite their 16-year age gap.

The pair have remained close since their time on the dancing show, proving that cross-generational friendships can bring fresh perspectives, shared laughs, and genuine mutual growth.

Research commissioned by AXA UK found that six in 10 (60%) have friends from other generations, while 75% of people said they will always make time to have a chat with those older than themselves and benefit from their experiences.

Vanessa said: “Some of the most rewarding friendships are the ones that span generations because they bring together different perspectives, experiences and ways of looking at the world.

“Whether you’re sharing stories over a coffee, tackling a challenge together or simply catching up on life, those shared experiences have a way of bringing people closer, regardless of age.

“I’ve certainly learnt a lot from James over the years, and I’d like to think he’s learnt a thing or two from me as well.

“It’s easy to stay within our own age groups, but when we make connections with people from different generations, we open ourselves up to new ideas, fresh outlooks and friendships that can genuinely enrich our lives.”

The research revealed that 35% rarely, or never, socialise with people who are 15 years younger or older than themselves.

Yet learning new perspectives (42%), sharing skills and knowledge (39%) and becoming more open-minded (27%) were named as the biggest benefits by those who do. Nearly half (49%) said they get more out of activities when they involve people from different age groups.

Outside of work (34%) and family gatherings (33%), Brits tend to spend the most time with people from other generations at sporting events (15%) and down the pub (14%).

Music also proved a popular option, with 46% of respondents agreeing it’s something that traditionally unites people of all ages.

The OnePoll.com study revealed that 62% would like to tick off a bucket list activity alongside someone from a different generation.

When it comes to working alongside people from different generations, 34% said having different perspectives was the greatest advantage, while 32% pointed to knowledge sharing.

More than a third (36%) said the government should make it a priority to broaden opportunities for on-the-job training and skills development to better accommodate different generations.

Some 80% of respondents said that improved sharing of skills, knowledge and experience between workers of varying age groups could boost productivity and drive economic growth.

Tara Foley, CEO of AXA UK & Ireland, which created ‘the generational dividend report’, said: “Every generation has something valuable to offer.

“Bringing people of different ages together strengthens not only families, but our workplaces and communities too. It creates opportunities for experience and fresh thinking to meet, and for all of us to learn from one another.

“At a time when the UK is looking for new ways to grow and adapt, that is an opportunity we should embrace.

“We see the value of this every day. Our colleagues bring different experiences, perspectives and insights, helping us understand and serve our customers better.

“When people of all ages feel valued and able to contribute, we build stronger teams, generate better ideas and create a more inclusive society that is ready for the future.”

THE TOP 10 MOST COMMON GROUNDS BETWEEN GENERATIONS:

1. Family events
2. Sport
3. Food
4. Music
5. Hobbies
6. Relationships
7. Travel
8. Films/TV
9. Work
10. Social media