The Forum’s Autumn Meeting 2022 was held on Tuesday, 11th October from 3-5pm at the William Booth Birthplace Museum in Sneinton, Nottingham. During the meeting Chis Harris of the Broxtowe Women’s Project, gave a presentation about partnering with local museums to help them make space for a conversation about domestic abuse and violence against women. She shared how this kind of partnership strengthens community engagement and helps support staff and volunteers. Ms Harris has worked with the National Justice Museum and is now working alongside D. H. Lawrence Birthplace, Bennerley Viaduct, Canalside Heritage Centre and other local museums, as well as supporting the Safer Museums network focusing on these issues.
During the meeting there was time to network and enjoy refreshments and after the meeting some members stayed on to tour the William Booth Birthplace Museum, most visiting for the very first time.
Prior to the Autumn Meeting, a ‘Dementia Friend’ training from 1.45-2.45pm was led by Steve Smith, Community Organiser and Community Engagement Consultant with Sneinton Alchemy CIC, during which people had the opportunity to become a certified Dementia Friend. A Dementia Friend is someone who learns about dementia so that they can help their community – or even help a family member.
Being a Dementia Friend simply means learning more about dementia, putting yourself in the shoes of someone living with the condition, and turning your understanding into action. From visiting someone you know with dementia to being more patient in a shop queue, every action counts.
Too many people affected by dementia feel that society fails to understand the condition they live with. Dementia Friends help by raising awareness and understanding, so that people living with dementia can continue to live in the way they want.
