The Brent smile challenge.
It is now generally agreed that the pandemic and lockdown have made any existing mental health conditions worse or creating new mental health struggles.
Poor mental health is something that anyone can suffer regardless of their background, job position, financial standing and even how they may seem on the surface. Some people may experience a short period of poorer mental health brought on by temporary stresses, while others may be living with a long-term condition. Either way, like any other illness, this is nothing to be ashamed of and with the right help things can be improved.
This workshop programme is for people experiencing early-stage dementia, mild cognitive impairment, memory challenges and their companions.
Arts 4 Dementia has teamed up with Ashford Place to bring you this creative words of expression workshop. Expect poetry, lyric writing and musical influences. The work made over the 6 sessions will create a collaborative body of work called a Box of Smiles.
This programme has been inspired by Ronald Amanze, an A4D Trustee who lives with early-stage dementia. Having been a music producer for many years, Ronald has seen the benefits of engaging with music and songwriting that he says ‘brings a therapeutic calm and a smile to my face.’
Published poet, Pamela Thompson will facilitate the workshops and introduce the group to a number of different writing techniques. This will be an opportunity for participants to engage in a variety of writing forms.
Get together with your local community for a programme full of creativity and communal making. No previous experience is necessary!
Refreshments will be provided after the session to give you the opportunity to socialise with fellow participants.
The work created on this course will be part of our ‘Box of Smile’ initiative, demonstrating that engaging in the arts can empower our minds.
- To participate, you will need to register by phone in advance.
- Numbers are restricted so, if you may be interested in joining the workshops, please email emily@arts4dementia.org.uk or call 020 3633 9954 as soon as possible.
- Only those who expect to be able to attend all 6 sessions from 19th July – 23rd August can be accommodated.
- Materials will be provided.