New fun group to help jog memory

Workshops to help dementia sufferers

A fun and activity- packed arts workshop designed to bring joy to the lives of people living with dementia is being launched at Airdrie town hall next week.

The Scottish Opera performing arts organisation will deliver its innovative Memory Spinners programme to help anyone with neurological disorders, and their carers, to “relax, get creative and form new support networks”.

Those involved with the project use music, storytelling, movement and the visual arts and, throughout each term, share memories that are then incorporated into a relaxed performance for friends and family.

Memory Spinners was shortlisted in the Best Community Support Initiative category of Scotland’s Dementia Awards last year, with the Scottish Opera’s education and outreach department running the programme since 2010.

Following hugely successful events held in Glasgow and Edinburgh, the project is now being rolled out in Airdrie – in partnership with Culture NL – with classes running on Mondays, from January 29, between 1pm and 3pm. They will then culminate with a special performance for family and friends on Friday, March 23.

Audrey Blake, Memory Spinners project manager at Scottish Opera, said: “We are delighted to be partnering with CultureNL on the launch of Memory Spinners in North Lanarkshire. The team is looking forward to working with the group in Airdrie town hall.

“Those who would like to come along are encouraged to attend with a partner, such as their spouse, relative or carer, but this isn’t compulsory and everyone is welcome.

“At Memory Spinners, we will use music and the arts to enhance physical health and wellbeing, and the workshops help reduce social isolation. It’s also really fun!”

Deborah McArthur, a r t s development officer with CultureNL, added: “The sessions aim to encourage people to share stories that are then incorporated into a relaxed performance for friends and family.

“The Memory Spinner groups were created by Scottish Opera in 2010 and have already proven successful in Glasgow and Edinburgh.

“Now they are working in partnership with CultureNL to bring them to North Lanarkshire, where I’m sure they will not just be popular, but also provide a source of comfort and happiness to those taking part.”

For more information, or to join the classes, contact Deborah on 01236 856 246.

Further details on the Memory Spinners programme is available by visiting www.scottishopera.org.uk/ join-in/memory-spinners/

We’ll use music and the arts to enhance physical health and wellbeing and the workshops help reduce social isolation. It’s also really fun Audrey Blake, Memory Spinners

Music to the ears Visitors to the workshop can enjoy song and dance