Side by Side / Ochr wrth Ochr aims to create a toolkit of experience, processes and digital technologies to allow independent artists to engage in heritage crafts activities to help bridge the generations, particularly for those in care homes who are often separated from family, friends and physical roots.
Apart from bringing people together in social contexts, art-based interventions in dementia can lead to improved cognition, social behaviour and sense of well-being. They also encourage a fuller engagement in the present, cognitive improvements and enhanced quality of life.
The overarching goal of the Side by Side/ Ochr wrth Ochr project is to enhance the lives of care home residents and workers, families of those in care, young people, artists and makers, and the academic community.
Side by Side / Ochr wrth Ochr is funded by Cherish-DE and is a collaboration between the AWEN Institute, the Computational Foundry, and History Department at Swansea University, Hafod Housing care services and environmental artist Helen Malia.
