Ards and North Down Borough Council is delighted to host series of Dementia Inclusive Art Workshops at Ards Arts Centre.
Taking place on the first Friday of each month, “Friday Friendlies” is an inclusive art club, suitable for anyone requiring a gentler pace of class with less focus on skills or for those who maybe need a little extra help to bring out their creativity.
Run in conjunction with Dementia NI, the club is particularly suitable for those keen to engage in a creative and fun activity following a dementia diagnosis, or for those just wanting to meet like-minded friends and try out arts and crafts in a supported class. The classes are facilitated by Sandra Robinson who will guide participants through a variety of hands-on arts and crafts activities.
Speaking about the programme, Emily Crawford, Arts and Heritage Manager with Ards and North Down Borough Council said: Ards and North Down Borough Council recognises the positive impact that participation in arts activity can have on the wellbeing of those living with dementia. Ards Arts Centre is delighted to be working with Dementia NI to deliver this new monthly programme of arts activity facilitated by artist Sandra Robinson. Participants at our first session enjoyed making ceramic pots and the opportunity to meet new friends.
Dementia NI welcome the opportunity to partner with Ards Arts Centre on this exciting initiative. It has been fabulous for Dementia NI members to be involved in the creation of the ‘Friday Friendlies’ workshops right from the beginning, assisting people with a dementia diagnosis to remain active and included within their local community.
Dementia NI member Glenn McCabe who lives with dementia has been attending the art club,
“I have really enjoyed attending the Art Club. The staff were very friendly and helpful towards my individual needs. The art class helped show me that I can still achieve things myself even after my diagnosis of dementia. Everyone gets to participate to the best of their own abilities. I am really looking forward to the next class.”
For more information or to book a space, phone Ards Arts Centre on Tel: 028 9181 0803
*** Please note due to current COVID restrictions, this project is currently postponed until further notice. ***