FREE creative writing sessions for people living with Dementia

People living with dementia are being invited to get involved in free creative writing sessions taking place at the Beaney in Canterbury from mid-April.

The Cabinet of Curiosities project, run by the city council’s Community Services team, is open to anyone living with dementia and aims to help them write creatively using the museum’s collections for inspiration. No writing experience is necessary, but participants will need to be able to move around the museum, either on foot or in a wheelchair, and use the toilets independently, or be accompanied by a carer who can assist them. They also need to be comfortable in a group and be able to communicate well enough to take part. The sessions will be supported by volunteers, so carers need not attend, but are welcome to join in if those taking part feel they need extra help.

The council’s Head of Community Services, Marie Royle, said: “There are many benefits of writing for people living with dementia. It has great therapeutic value and can help people find a voice when speaking may become difficult. Writing groups like these also assist with social interaction and can help combat loneliness. The many and varied collections in the Beaney will provide perfect inspiration and we are looking forward to seeing the results in a few weeks’ time.”

Cabinet of Curiosities takes place at the Beaney every Monday between 18 April and 20 June, except bank holidays, between 10.30am and 12.30pm. Anyone who is interested in attending or would like more information should contact Nicky Thompson on 01227 862125 or email
nicky.thompson@canterbury.gov.uk.