Around 2,500 people living with dementia in East Cambridgeshire and their carers are to benefit from a local venue to share a classic movie thanks to a grant from Cambridgeshire Freemasons to the Viva charity.
The £30,000 grant will support Viva’s Silver Screens project, which will enable the group to support those living with dementia within East Cambridgeshire, helping to reduce the isolation amongst individuals both living with the disease and their carers, and provide a safe and welcoming place to socialise and bring back happy memories. Viva are delighted to be able to make cinema inclusive and accessible for everyone and with the grant have been able to secure a regular classic and nostalgic cinematic experience, offering affordable tickets and a space to socialise over a brew.
The season of hand-picked titles includes both classics, harking back to a memorable era and often with a great memory triggering soundtrack, and more recent titles starring great British Actors well known for their captivating on screen presence and appeal to a generation of Silver Screeners. The Season continues this month with Nothing Like a Dame starring the late Dame Maggie Smith, followed by Ealing Studios The Ladykillers starring Sir Alec Guinness in November and Meet Me in St Louis in December with Judy Garland.
We’re very grateful to Cambridgeshire Freemasons for their generous grant. Evidence shows that a classic movie can stimulate the mind, help improve memory, and is associated with relaxation, engagement and, above all, enjoyment. Film has a proud history of giving a voice to those who do not have one.
— Daniel Schumann DL, Chair of Viva Arts & Community Group
The funding will make a significant difference in the lives of those living with dementia and their families by providing a safe environment in which everyone can continue to have a positive experience. The venue, that has made adjustments to the environment to be welcoming and supportive, so that those living with dementia are able to really enjoy the films they see. As is well known, cinema is an immersive experience, which leaves a profound and lasting impact on an individual each time they visit.
I’m very pleased we’ve been able to help Viva with their amazing programme of classic films for people with dementia, such a wonderful initiative. It’s not only therapeutic but also great fun for them and for their carers. The magic of cinema offers an enchanting experience for everyone involved.
— Bill Dastur, Provincial Grand Master of Cambridgeshire Freemason
For further information about Viva Arts & Community Group, please visit viva-group.org.uk for tickets and further information or contact Bev Cruxon-Lewis on 01353 722228 — email bev@viva-group.org.uk
