Jul 09 2020: Keeping memories alive with new Sheffield dementia project

RESIDENTS in five Sheffield care homes have been taking a trip down Memory Lane as part of a new Sheffield Council dementia support project.

Funded by the council’s Dementia Innovation Fund, the project - In Our Days: Memories of Sheffield and Beyond - was based around Walkley Library and involved the nearby homes operated by city charity Sheffcare.

The homes involved took part in reminiscence sessions where the thoughts, comments and memories of the residents were recorded and turned into poems and stories which became part of a special book.

“It is lovely for our residents to feel like their stories were of interest to others and it is particularly thrilling that these memories have been made into a book,” said Sheffcare Volunteer Coordinator Kathryn Rawling.

“The project has gifted all our care homes a copy of the book and these are being used as a conversational reminiscence activity tool in groups or on a one to one basis.

“The books were well received and enjoyed by our residents - both those involved in the project and others too.”

Project organisers also supplied further copies of the book which were presented to family members

“At this difficult time during the COVID-19 lockdown residents have been separated from their families and families have felt a greater need to connect in any way they can to their loved ones in our care,”said Kathryn.

“Ann Grange, the project organiser, generously gifted enough books to enable the families of all involved to be sent a copy, making a precious keep sake for all now and in the future.”

“We would like to thank the Dementia Innovation Fund and the in Our Day project for choosing Sheffcare to be involved in this lovely project and for giving us enough books to make this gesture possible.”

The book - In Our Day: Memories of Sheffield and Beyond - is available now at Amazon.