Prince's Trust create dementia village in care home to 'ignite special memories'

A group of young people, aged 17 to 26, have helped to create a unique dementia village at a care home in Salford, as part of The Prince’s Trust 'personal development' programme.

Over two weeks, the team of 11 put their skills to the test by transforming Pemberton Fold’s courtyard area into a traditional English village, complete with an allotment, sweet shop and tranquil gardens.

To fund the challenge, the team raised over £400 by packing customers’ bags at Asda in Trafford Park.

Julie Lindsay, assistant service manager for Pemberton Fold care home and mastermind behind the project, said: “I’d like to thank the young people for doing an amazing job at turning our dream into a reality. It’s taken a long time to get here and we’re thrilled to have our dementia village open for business.

“It’s been wonderful to see the young group interacting with our residents, staff and relatives – everyone’s helped out. The people we support love it and not only is it great for their health and well-being, we also hope it will ignite special memories for them too.”

The Right Worshipful Ceremonial Mayor of the City of Salford, Councillor Peter Connor, officially opened the village yesterday afternoon. He said: “The Prince’s Trust team have done an exceptional job and should be immensely proud of themselves. The village looks incredible.”

During the ceremony, the team gave a short presentation to the guests, sharing their inspiration for the project and what they enjoyed the most.

Team member Charlotte Pearce, aged 26, said: “Working on this project has been very challenging in many ways but knowing that the work we have done will benefit the residents and will make them happy, has made it worthwhile.”

City West Housing Trust and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service work in partnership to deliver the 'Eccles Team' Prince’s Trust programme.

The 12-week project is aimed at young people who are Not in Education, Employment, or Training (NEET), or at risk of becoming NEET. The programme supports young people to build their confidence and employability skills, meet new people and gain nationally recognised qualifications.

Pemberton Fold is part of Community Integrated Care – one of Britain’s biggest care providers supporting thousands of people across England and Scotland who have learning disabilities, mental health needs, autism and age-related needs, including dementia.

click here for more details or to contact Pemberton Fold