Living Memories Launches Innovative Reminiscence Initiative to Support Older Residents During Challenging Winter
Devon-based social enterprise, Living Memories CIC, has announced the launch of an innovative reminiscence initiative aimed at supporting older residents as communities across the UK prepare for a challenging winter. The organisation will offer its Living Memories Online reminiscence streaming service, featuring nearly 3,000 archive film programmes and newsreels from the 20th century, to help create engaging activities in community Warm Spaces.
The “Sharing Memories In Warm Spaces” subscription, which includes a free trial period, is available for just £10.00 monthly. This initiative provides community groups and local councils with comprehensive reminiscence resources to help build meaningful social contacts between residents through shared memories over a cup of tea. The films can also provide opportunities to create quizzes, share life stories, and provide background for themed community events set in the 20th century.
According to Brian Norris, founder of Living Memories CIC, “Rising energy costs are affecting communities nationwide. Our streaming service helps transform Warm Spaces into vibrant social hubs, where older people can stay warm while engaging with fascinating archive footage that triggers memories and encourages conversation.”
The organisers of the Warm Spaces can run reminiscence sessions showing Living Memories Online on all digital devices and casting to TV screens or projecting onto a wall. A group may consist of 5-25 people, and sessions can be just as rewarding for a couple of people, perhaps using a tablet or even a mobile phone. All 3000 archive films have subtitles, which can be helpful for anyone with impaired hearing.
Research and experience have shown that screening archive films in community settings can stimulate natural conversation and social interaction, help combat isolation among older residents, create valuable intergenerational connections, provide cognitive stimulation for those living with dementia, and strengthen community bonds through shared memories.
As part of the comprehensive support package, subscribers will receive full access to Living Memories Online’s extensive archive of 20th century programmes and newsreels, a PDF giving detailed guidance for organising reminiscence sessions, video help for using the streaming platform, and a dedicated telephone support line (07737 827991).
The service is designed for use in various community venues, including community centres, local libraries, church halls, village halls, care homes, and any designated Warm Spaces. “Living Memories Online isn’t just a streaming service,” says Norris. “It’s a tool for helping to create welcoming environments where older people feel valued and connected. The archive films provide a unique way to stimulate memories and encourage communication, particularly beneficial for us all.”
Community groups and local councils can access the service at https://livingmemories.imagencloud.com or https://www.livingmemoriesonline.com. For questions and further information, please contact sharingmemories@livingmemories.io.
About Living Memories CIC
Living Memories CIC is a not-for-profit social enterprise based in Devon, UK. The organisation specialises in using archive films to enhance the well-being of older people, including those living with dementia, and supports community initiatives that combat isolation and create connections. Recently, it received a national Points of Light Award.
Media Contact:
Brian Norris
Telephone: 079222 33363 or 01297 552358
Email: sharingmemories@livingmemories.io