A shared community art project is bringing people together to raise awareness during Dementia Action Week.
The Hive in Worcester is inviting people to create a giant forget-me-not quilt as part of a week of activities from May 18-24 supporting those affected by dementia, including a public talk by Dr Catrin Jones from the University of Worcester.
Gemma Dunn from The Hive said: “Libraries are at the heart of the community, and for Dementia Action Week, we wanted to create something that is welcoming, creative and completely inclusive.
“The forget-me-not project invites people of all ages and abilities to take part in a shared piece of artwork that symbolises remembrance, awareness and support.
“Dementia can be an incredibly lonely experience, for the people living with it and their families and carers.
“This is about opening up conversations and creating a kind, safe space where people can simply come along, be listened to, and feel connected.”
Contributions to the quilt can be knitted, crocheted, painted, or crafted from paper and other materials.
They can be made at home, in community groups, or at creative sessions hosted at The Hive.
These sessions will run from May 19-21 between noon and 2pm, with materials and refreshments provided.
Ms Dunn said: “Everything we’re offering is free, because everyone should be able to access support and take part.
“We’re incredibly grateful to Worcester Community Garden for their support.”
Completed forget-me-nots can be dropped off at The Hive between 8.30am and 10pm daily or posted to Forget-Me-Nots Appeal, The Hive Library, Sawmill Close, The Butts, Worcester WR1 3DP.
Dr Jones, senior lecturer at the university’s Association for Dementia Studies, will deliver two talks at 11.30am and 6.30pm on Monday, May 18.
Admission is free but booking is required https://e-services.worcestershire.gov.uk/.
She said: “The talk is for anyone who has a personal or professional interest in dementia, and I’d really like to see people who have experience of living with dementia.
“It’ll be a chance to hear about the research we’re doing at the Association of Dementia Studies and also share the work we’ve been doing with Worcestershire Libraries.”
