New memory box service launched in community hubs

New memory boxes will be available at Monmouthshire Community Hubs from next month.

Thanks to funding from the Welsh Federation of Museums and Galleries, MonLife Heritage Learning has developed 15 new memory boxes for use in the community.

All boxes are available for free borrowing, similar to lending a library book.

Each memory box contains a wealth of carefully selected objects ideal for reminiscing about past events with older adults or people living with dementia. Each box has a different theme so users can chat about various experiences and memories.

The service was recently launched in Caldicot Community Hub. The event showcased information and support for people living with dementia, including Reading Well for Dementia.

Reading Well for Dementia recommends helpful reading and digital resources for people living with dementia, their families and carers. There was also an opportunity to singalong with The Chepstow Singing Club and take part in craft activity from Monmouthshire Community Learning.

Cllr Angela Sandles, Monmouthshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Equalities and Engagement, said: “Thanks to funding from the Welsh Federation of Museums and Galleries, our MonLife Heritage Learning officers have been able to create memory boxes that will bring history to life.

“I’ve enjoyed exploring these boxes myself, and I encourage people to borrow them to create moments of reminiscence.”