Have been inspired over the past couple of days by the interest shown in the nature therapy and dementia care work.  The ethos of nature therapy is very much in keeping with the national work taking place on dementia friendly environments. The Isle of Wight has been fortunate to gain funding to really push this forward and the local hospital along with some residential homes are part of a partnership to make this happen.

Have also been heart warmed by the interest shown by the fantastic John Muir Award scheme. They took some time out to discuss how their awards could work for people with dementia and their families.  We also discussed how the award could work for carers working in residential homes as part of the dementia friendly environment approach. The award is nationally recognised and for some members of a family with a relative with dementia this would really credit their involvement.  Equally for carers working in residential homes and hospitals, the award would be an accolade not only for them as individuals but for the organisation they work for too. All great news as at the end of the day the person that really benefits from all of this is the individual with dementia.

Many people own horses in the UK - and even more in the US, but many do not know the potential their own horse has for taking them on a journey of discovery.  It is not about riding or a journey on horse back, it is a journey into unique self insights. It is aimed at helping you understand more about you - what makes you tick and your patterns of behaviour.




Nature Therapy CIC is now offering a specialised service for horse owners. Email kim@holecottage.plus.com for an information booklet. 

The pilot for the dementia programme has bought tears, laughter, frustration and relief for all concerned.  This work is real and it is authentic because individuals with dementia and their carers/family have helped shaped how it has evolved. I am in awe of their input and can only thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for helping shape the Haven nature therapy programme for dementia care.