The AONB Unit has been working towards this innovative approach, in getting hard to reach groups out and about in the Wye Valley, for the past three years with their Inside Out programme. The funding will enable this innovative programme to focus on people living with dementia and help them reconnect back with the landscape in the Forest of Dean. The project will also be recruiting a part time funded Mindscape Project Co-ordinator who will work to pull together the regular activities and events, promote the scheme and raise awareness of the challenges of dementia.

Mindscape will be essentially a regular club where people can get together, enjoy company, chat, tea and cake and can take part in a range of activities and events. These will be based around the landscape its environment, history, heritage, arts and crafts. From jam making to canoeing from poetry to singing.

Most of the regular fortnightly activities during the spring and summer will be based at Bracelands Adventure Centre, Christchurch near Coleford where there is an already established forest studio space but it will move around the Dean area particularly during winter months.

Nikki Moore the Wye Valley AONB Information Officer was really excited about the new project. ‘ We have been working incredibly hard in consulting the various groups in the Forest of Dean and we are so pleased that this programme will now have a four year period and funds to carry out really meaningful events and activities. This can make a real difference to those living with dementia and those who care for them either as family members or from the professional care services.’

Solid partnership working has been an essential element of the success in gaining the Big Lottery funding of £129,000 towards their £160,000 project. The Forestry Commission, Art Space, The Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia Adventure and the Forest of Dean District Council Community Engagement Officers have all been involved in helping to formulate the project and will be on hand to work with the project and as part of the Dementia Alliance will be working towards making the Forest of Dean a dementia friendly area..

Most of the events and activities are either free or will cost a small amount. Transport can be arranged if required. So if you feel you, your family carer or the person you care for and work with would benefit from regular meetings, events and activities please contact the Wye Valley AONB. Also go onto the website www.wyevalleyaonb.org.uk to download the Interactive leaflet which you can fill in and register your interest and decide on the types of activities you would like to see offered. Or contact Nikki Moore, Wye Valley AONB Information Officer on 01600 710846 or email information@wyevalleyaonb.org.uk for the leaflet and further information about Mindscape.

If you wish details about the Project Co-ordinator’s job then again you can download it from the website or again email or telephone Nikki.

River Festival information is also available on www.wyevalleyaonb.org.uk