The new chapter project aims to provide an innovative and comprehensive programme of creative opportunities for people in Calderdale, living with dementia, to enhance their quality of life, as well as health and opportunities to socialise with others.
We run two groups based in the Upper Valley and in central Halifax for anyone aged over 60, experiencing early signs of dementia as well as those at risk of developing mental health issues. During the groups, participants are encouraged to attend ‘themed’ weekly music and dance sessions run by Arch-Way Project – “a 1950’s style ‘club’ providing entertainment in the genre of that era, including live music performed by Calderdale College music students who will dress and sing in a 1950’s style and invite audiences to ‘join in’ with familiar songs from their youth, theatrical skits performed by drama students, black and white film shows that were big hits during the fifties and dancing.”
Through this project, we aim to:
- help combat the social isolation of older people through participation
- improve older people’s access to creative expression
- develop a greater understanding of the dementia condition by using creative arts
- offer creative intervention as a viable alternative for GP’s and CCG’s
- support and train artists/care staff to ensure good practice
The sessions would be supplemented by ‘days out’ – enjoyable and meaningful excursions supported by cultural providers and Creative Minds partners like Yorkshire Sculpture Park.