Nature Memories Cafe fosters inclusivity through outdoor experiences. People connect with nature and each other, finding solace and building lasting, joyful memories.
Back at the start of 2017 the Alpkit Foundation was delighted to help support the trial of a nature café for people living with dementia and their loved ones.
The volunteer led nature café at the Berks, Bucks and Oxon Wildlife Trust's Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham site ran a 10 week trial from January.
Becky from the Centre explains why the project was started. - We wanted to provide a relaxed welcoming environment for people living with dementia and their loved ones get together experience nature through guided walks wildlife watching crafts enjoy refreshments whilst enjoying our beautiful reserve. evidence suggests that access has wide range of benefits including increased physical emotional health independence self esteem memory attention.
There was already a café on site in the visitor centre but they wanted to put on a dedicated Monday morning when it was normally closed to the general public. It is great to see that this trial period was a success and they continue to offer a series of free weekly drop in sessions designed to provide support for people living with dementia where they can experience the relaxing power of nature through crafts and other activities and enjoy a piece of delicious homemade cake with a hot drink. If you're in the area then you can find out more on their website or head over to their Facebook page.