Come and join us for a trip down memory lane at cafe

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THE pandemic has brought so many challenges for us all as social interaction has been restricted making it increasingly difficult to spend time with family and friends.

Those challenges have been magnified for those living with dementia bringing with it increased isolation and confusion.

Last November, pre-covid, The Cheltenham Trust launched a Memory Lane Café at The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum, a social group for older people and those living with dementia.

The café provided the opportunity for people to take part in a range of activities including handling objects, fun activities, special guests and music in a safe and comfortable environment.

At the Trust we know how important social interaction and human connection is to our overall health and wellbeing, even more so than ever during the current Covid19 crisis.

Our two outdoor cafes at the Pump Room and Garden Bar have been well attended as they provide safe events and space to meet.

We recognise that support is also needed for those who may be feeling lonely or isolated and may still need to shield and are missing the company of others, and there are many people in the local community living with dementia, or caring for those with dementia that need some welcome interaction and support.

The Trust is pleased to update that it has launched a virtual Memory Lane Café, which is available online at The Wilson website.

A virtual meeting place has been created to share memories with others.

This month the café is sharing memories focuses on gardening and the emotions and stories that come from a love of plants and a garden.

The café uses photographs and memory memos to offer an opportunity to reminisce and share memories with others.

Each month a new photograph is used to prompt memories and stories, which are shared on the website.

Members of the public are invited to share their own memories inspired by the artefacts and the memories of others.

It’s easy to take part and submit, using the ‘send in your memory’ link on the website.

The Memory Lane Café can be found at: www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk/ event/the-online-memory-lane-cafe/

So why not make a cup of tea and join the café each month for a new trip down memory lane and a welcome chat with others?