In support of National Arts in a Care Home Day on 24th September 2024, our fantastic members of staff volunteered to help out at ADSS community centre. Our staff supported two art sessions and were able to speak to members living with Alzheimer’s and Dementia and get involved with creating some artsy masterpieces!
Pat and Emma were the first to volunteer and took part in an interactive, sensory art session which involved using paints and canvas’s that we had donated. Paint was loaded onto the canvas then wrapped in cling film so that it could be moved around, and low and behold.. some works of art were created!
Next to volunteer was Bella and Joanne. They helped out at an autumn themed art session where they helped to decorate and paint trees with some members of ADSS. It’s safe to say that they created some amazing pieces and we’re going to frame Joanne and Ernie’s in our reception area in Gravesend! Our volunteers shared their thoughts on their experience below:
“I had been really looking forward to going to ADSS and it didn’t disappoint. The time spent at ADSS was really interesting and so much fun. During our painting activity, I paired up with Ray. I attempted a butterfly whilst Ray, very studiously and methodically, concentrated on a series of coloured circles. Ray enjoyed the painting and he also liked to see what Brenda (the lady paired with Emma) was doing, telling her how nice her painting looked. He was also happy to simply sit quietly, taking in everyone’s conversation and occasionally joining in. Before we left, Emma and I were given a guided tour of the premises where we met their lovely, dedicated, hard-working staff and were also taken to have a look round their newly created sensory garden.” - Pat Grain
“I attended ADSS with Pat, we had a look around and thought what a lovely, clean and spacious building. We then painted with Roy and my new best friend, Brenda - she did love me bless her! Me and Pat also did a painting ourselves, mine not so good but Pat... I think she loved it, she was very quiet, an artist in making. The garden was amazing! Most of the furniture and plants has come from the help of people raising money. It was such a wonderful morning, I didn’t want to leave.” - Emma Rose
“It was a good experience. I enjoyed meeting everyone and seeing everyone’s creativity. Having previously worked and volunteered at homes with service users with dementia, it was particularly meaningful for me to be back in a that setting. I would definitely do it again.” - Joanne Sawyer
“My favourite part of my arts morning was discussing where everyone grew up, and of course Ernie’s cheeky personality. My aunt works as Head of Coordination for ADSS and in the last 2 weeks they won THREE prestigious awards in one night which has never been done before; 2024 Kent Charity of the Year, Disability Charity of the Year and Trustee of the Year. Proud niece moment! - Bella Harrington