1st Holmer Scouts Group are busy working towards their Million Hands Project and their Community Impact Badge. As part of this work they have chosen to learn more about dementia and link with people affected by dementia in their Community and we are delighted that they have chosen to work in partnership with Coldwells House. We welcomed 26 cubs and scouts yesterday for an evening of arts and crafts. The evening began with our guests having an insightful talk by our wonderful Admiral Nurse, Andrea who showed them a short film and chatted to them about how dementia affects someone and how we support. Some very good questions came out of this session, including, "Can you catch dementia from being lonely?"
Our guests then split up into two groups. Upstairs we had watercolours with our guest Artist and downstairs we had card making. It was fantastic to see the looks on our residents’ faces when they were chatting and busily working with the children and I am sure you will glean this yourselves from the pictures. Even though our residents are living with dementia this proved no barrier for our guests and once the initial shyness had blown away, the chitter chatter, laughter and everyone helping each other was lovely to see.
I can't finish this post without publishing an e mail we received from a parent volunteer who visited us yesterday:-
"Dear all.
I was very lucky to be invited to the cub activity evening tonight. My son Alfie is a member of Wildcats Cubs and it was my turn as a parent to help.
I just wanted to say how lovely and welcoming the staff made us feel. I made friends with Betty and to be honest I totally fell in love with her - she is simply beautiful!! All of the residents that we met were just gorgeous! The cakes were delicious but Betty and I were a little disappointed with the squash - we were hoping for Brandy!
You have provided a lovely home for some lovely people!
So thank you for a really special evening - I had the best time.
Merry Christmas to you all and a big kiss for my new friend Betty!
Kind regards - Mel Pugh"
Just precious! Our partnership will continue in the Spring when our guests will be back to help our residents in the garden and a new project. Roll on the Spring!!