Gloucestershire libraries to launch project supporting over 60s
The project will be launched during Dementia Awareness Week (15 to 21 May) and will include a number of creative activities, workshops and opportunities.
It follows Gloucestershire Libraries being recognised as a National Portfolio Organisation by Arts Council England, with funding awarded for three years for new activities and resources.
Gloucestershire Libraries and Gloucestershire NHS Trust will be offering advice and support for people over 60, with the aim of providing accessible and engaging activities specifically for those living with dementia, memory loss and their carers.
There are two new Library Choirs planned, both based in Gloucester, which will work with older communities to encourage social activity through creativity. Aimed at care homes and people living with dementia, they aim to create social interaction through music and performance in trusted and familiar library buildings. Gloucestershire Libraries will be appealing for choir leaders and members to join in the coming months.
There will also be an art exhibition linking older and younger people called Carousel of Stories, which will involve six individual projects focussed around memories and stories. The projects will have six themes including photography, performance and film, linking with partners at Gloucestershire Archives. Once completed the work and findings will be displayed around the county.
Free dementia awareness sessions are being held in libraries during Dementia Awareness Week and throughout the year to provide information and support. These can be booked at gloucestershire.spydus.co.uk.
They are available to anyone who would like to understand more and combat some of the myths surrounding the disease and are being delivered by One Gloucestershire, a partnership made up of NHS, social care, public health and other public, voluntary and community sector partners.
To find out more about the Ageing with Creativity project and how to get involved contact Sally Williams, Library Development Officer, at sally.williams3@gloucestershire.gov.uk
Jane Everiss, head of library and registration services at Gloucestershire County Council, said: “This project is one of many new initiatives planned by Gloucestershire Libraries through its recognition as a National Portfolio Organisation by the Arts Council.
“The Ageing with Creativity project will provide great support for the over 60s, with many varied activities to help those living with dementia, memory loss and their carers.”