This month we’re shining a spotlight on our Creativity and Dementia work and taking part in some fundraising initiatives to support our ongoing groups.
Across the past few years, the New Vic’s Education Team have been running three groups designed to break down the stigma surrounding a dementia diagnosis. Introducing participants to arts-based activities, the groups are designed to support and foster a more positive outlook for the future in both the personal and social lives of each participant.
Each week, the New Vic’s Education Team work alongside three groups: people living with dementia and their carers; a drama group targeting younger people (under 65s) and those newly diagnosed with dementia, and an Open House café – an arts-focused friendship café designed to provide space for people to meet over a hot drink and a slice of cake all year round.
The groups explore creative activities ranging from singing, dancing and playing musical instruments, through to expressing thoughts and feelings through drawing or writing their own poetry. Many of the sessions lend themselves to combatting loneliness as well as aiming to support wellbeing, assist with increasing confidence and support physical health improvements including joint mobility and breathing control. There is also a focus on providing support for mental health.
Katherine and her husband George have been attending one of the groups across the past 14 months and highlighted that the New Vic’s Creativity and Dementia group has formed the sole source of support for both of them since Katherine’s diagnosis two years ago.
“[Katherine] loves coming here. Everything they can throw at us, we’ll have a go. She remembers information and people much better thanks to the group” commented George.
Our work using theatre and the arts to support people living with dementia and their carers is invaluable to our participants. If you’d like to make a donation to help us continue our work in the community, there are a number of ways to give this month:
DONATE DURING THE BIG GIVE AND DOUBLE YOUR DONATION!
The Big Give is the UK’s leading match funding charity, helping to double the difference that donations make for organisations. This year we’re taking part in The Big Give, who are supporting us to make a positive difference to the lives of people affected by dementia.
Visit https://bit.ly/New-Vic-Donate to find out more and save the date: donations given to the New Vic through The Big Give’s website between 12noon on 18 March and 12 noon on 25 March will be doubled!
SUPPORT US AS WE TAKE PART IN THE LONDON MARATHON 2025
Dr Thom Petty, a member of the New Vic’s Board of Trustees, will be running the London Marathon this April after the New Vic secured a place in the event as a charity.
Thom is raising money for our Creativity and Dementia groups and to support our Open House Café.
If you’d like to sponsor Thom and give a gift to the New Vic, visit his JustGiving fundraising page at: www.justgiving.com/page/thompetty
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