We are unable to provide our usual reminiscence sessions in care homes due to the restrictions on social distancing and the need for us to keep residents, care staff, our staff and volunteers safe and to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus. However, we have set up a ‘virtual’ pen pal system between people living in care homes or older people self-isolating for 12 weeks and children who are being home educated.
We have also set up a Youtube channel with videos of sing-a-long music, poems and stories. These can be found at https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Forget+Me+Not+ActionEast+Devon
If you’d like to know more about our Forget Me Not ‘virtual’ services please contact Anna Valentine-Marsh, Forget Me Not Manager, on anna.valentine-marsh@actioneastdevon.org.uk
Please take care and stay safe.

Our Forget Me Not Reminiscence Service caters for groups and individuals.
Please follow this link for more information our individual service: https://actioneastdevon.org.uk/news-and-events/life...
What do we do?
We bring along a selection of memory boxes, which contain objects from the 1930's to the 1970's. The boxes are often based on a theme and the items appeal to all the senses.
Our group sessions can provide awakening moments for our clients. Amongst other benefits, it can help confirm a persons' unique identity and is often a lot of fun for all involved!
The objects in the boxes provide pleasant opportunities to share stories and compare past experiences.
Who are we?
We are a group of trained and supported volunteers, who give time on a regular basis to running reminiscence groups. We are supported by a part-time co-ordinator who provides training, carries our Criminal Records Checks and takes bookings for new sessions.
Where are sessions run?
Sessions are available in Axminster, Cranbrook, Honiton and Seaton in East Devon. Groups can meet anywhere there is a quiet, comfortable space, with room for up to 10 people.
We currently run groups in care homes, sheltered accommodation, community halls and memory cafes.
Sessions last about an hour and are particularly good for clients who are suffering with dementia and/or Alzheimer's, but it can also be beneficial for older people suffering from memory loss.
Cost:
Community sessions are offered on a donation basis. Residential settings pay a fee towards our costs.
Here are some more benefits of our service:
- Connects a person with their past, present and future. Who we are today and how we got here
- Encourages sociability and new relationships.
- Confirms a persons unique identity.
- Assists life review processes.
- Aids and informs care planning by increasing personal knowledge of group members.
- Gives pleasure and can be a lot of fun.
Find out more
For more details:
Telephone:
01404 549045
Email:
anna.valentine-marsh@actioneastdevon.org.uk