Gateshead Dementia Contract

We're responsible for delivering Gateshead Council's Dementia Contract for each of its care settings. Our creative Ageing training is open to Activity Coordinators across the borough. Each module includes creative practice while informing care staff of the different ways creativity can support communication and wellbeing for people liviing with dementia.

Our monthly training provides opportunities for peer networking with staff sharing experiences, ideas and best practice for supporting people living with dementia.

"I watch how they get everyone to take part. They start from the group and then invite the quieter people to give their views. It's very relevant, inspiring.” 

All of our training on the workforce development project is grounded in the theory of Dementia & Imagination with professional artists supporting care staff to develop creative communication techniques.

We support activities co-ordinators and other care staff, highlighting the importance of creative activity in everyday life within care settings. The network helps build confidence, skills and creative approaches to enrich the lives of residents.

Activity provision and supporting participation is endorsed within the care standards framework and inspection processes in the UK. Engagement of older adults and adults with dementia in participatory arts can help improve cognitive functioning, communication, self-esteem, enjoyment of life, memory and creative thinking by providing opportunities for meaningful social contact. (Remington 2002, Holmes et al, 2006)