Invites were sent to various age- and dementia-supporting organisations including Age UK Suffolk, Sue Ryder, Suffolk Family Carers, Sensing Change and Alzheimer’s Society. They ordered a stock of slippers and ferrules and collected memorabilia and researched film footage and music. Flyers were printed and circulated.
Each community got completely on board with these events and supported them in unexpectedly high numbers. Village activists were delighted that so many people joined in when it hasn’t been their habit to do so.
Each provided a great opportunity to build on acquaintanceships and get to know neighbours better. Those who don’t generally join in were expressly asked to come to future events if the village put anything on. The atmosphere at each event was vibrant and uplifting.