Rewilding Marigold: helping dementia residents through art and nature
Climate Action North is delighted to announce a project with a dementia nursing home in Sunderland to rewild their outdoor space and improve access to nature.
Rewilding Marigold will see the Climate Action North team build on the work already being done within the nursing home, including an experience inspiring memories and enabling residents to take part in a visual railway journey.
The Marigold Nursing Home, based in Leechmere Sunderland, is owned by Yitzi Bamberger. The walls of the corridors in the home have recently been decorated with a series of murals. The artwork depicts local, regional, and UK tourist attractions including Marsden Rock, Roker Lighthouse, Penshaw Monument, and nature and ocean themed murals.
The top floor of the home is devoted to looking after residents who suffer from Dementia. Manager, Bijumon Joseph, said: "We are a highly caring team committed to giving our residents the very best experience and highest level of care.
“The murals are a wonderful way to help our residents and their families, giving them a vibrant and colourful environment, stimulating memories as well as supporting their overall wellbeing."
In addition to the murals, the latest section of artwork, hand-painted by key carer Lenitta Moncy, is the conversion of a room into a train carriage with painted windows showing countryside views simulating being on a train journey.
Owner of Marigold, Yitzi, said: "The management team are very proud of our key carer and nurse Lenitta, who is responsible for creating this amazing artwork. We are fully supportive of her work, giving her dedicated time over the last four weeks to paint and complete this project. We are also very excited about the new train and look forward to boarding the Marigold Express!"
Sharon Lashley is Managing Director of Climate Action North and daughter of Marigold Resident Jenny. Sharon said: "This artwork is a truly special gift to the residents and their families, and it is a pleasure to walk the corridors to see the colours, the sights, and experience the excitement of being in the train carriage and watching the scenery. The artwork is amazing, and it lifts the spirits and makes us feel happy. Climate Action North is also excited to be working with Marigold on a project to rewild their outdoor space, improving access to nature for residents, staff, families, and visitors.”
26-year-old Lenitta (pictured below) said: "I am excited to have the opportunity to work on this project. It has enabled me to not only follow my passion for art but also to create a special gift which will provide happiness and comfort for the residents, families and staff here at Marigold."
Rewilding Marigold will start in the Spring and will involve growing wildflowers, improving access to nature for residents, bird nesting boxes and feeders, a greenhouse for growing, and outdoor murals and artwork.
For more information or learn about opportunities to sponsor this project, email info@climateactionnortheast.org.uk
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