“I am so happy because I haven’t been able to laugh with mum like that for such a long time, and I have to thank these ladies for making that happen.” Family member
“My husband was feeling isolated until Kitty spoke to him in Italian and then we sang him Italian songs. Today was the first time he smiled in a long time.” Family member
What is Forget Me Not Visitors:
Our Forget-Me-Not Visitors use a gentle approach and a variety of creative skills to improve the health and wellbeing of older people living with dementia in a medical setting.
Millie-Marigold and Kitty-Dandelion make regular visits to Ipswich Hospital’s older patients who are living with dementia.
Working as a pair, they move around the wards, sensitively assessing each patient’s need for comfort, inspiration or company, and creating a unique experience for each. You might hear them singing songs along with patients, playing a favourite tune on the ukulele, reciting poetry, storytelling or using dance and clowning to improve someone’s day.
The Visitors create a positive, friendly environment to help patients relax in the unfamiliar setting of the hospital, which helps to ease fear and confusion, reduce isolation and lift the spirits of patients and staff alike.
Who is Forget Me Not Visitors for:
Older people living with dementia and other complex needs at Ipswich Hospital.
When & Where is Forget Me Not Visitors happening:
Our Forget-me-not Visitors have been making regular visits to Ipswich Hospital since 2015
Contact:
Bridie Coombes on 01986 873 955 or bridie@suffolkartlink.org.uk
Forget Me Not Visitors has been made possible by generous funding from Suffolk Community Foundation through the Henry Smith Charity Community Grants Programme and the Rayne Foundation.
