Award-winning Edinburgh charity Hearts & Minds has today received an award of £15,360 from the National Lottery Community Fund Awards for All Scotland to enable the charity to develop their Elderflower Programme for people living with dementia in Alloa.
Sean Donnelly, CEO, Hearts & Minds commented: “We are delighted that our Elderflower programme has been awarded funding from the National Lottery.
“This crucial support will enable Hearts & Minds to create personalised interactions specifically designed for individuals living with dementia in Clackmannan.
“We understand the importance of fostering positive human connections for those affected by dementia, and our aim is to provide them with meaningful, engaging, and often uplifting experiences that significantly contribute to their well-being and overall quality of life.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the National Lottery for this award, which will allow us to extend our reach and impact to even more individuals this year.”
The National Lottery Community Fund, Scotland Chair, Kate Still said: “Every day National Lottery funding is changing the lives of thousands of people in communities across Scotland for the better.
“This project delivered by Hearts & Minds Limited, is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause or to help others.
“National Lottery players can be proud to know that the money they raise is helping to support this vital work which is making a real difference to so many.”
Hearts & Minds would like to thank The National Lottery Community Fund, for this award made possible by National Lottery players.
The Elderflowers are professional performers selected for their empathy, compassion, respect, and playfulness and are trained in clowning techniques including improvisation, music, slapstick, celebrating mistakes and rhythm.
They are also trained how to use their clowning skills in healthcare environments for older people living with dementia and other associated cognitive difficulties, who might be feeling anxious, isolated, confused, or frustrated, have sensory decline, and a loss of confidence and self-esteem.
The Elderflowers currently visit Findlay House, Edinburgh and Borders General Hospital and with this funding will return to Clackmannan.
