Please download a copy of our December News letter, Community Matters

Please download the latest edition of our monthly News sheet.

The latest edition of our monthly News letter

​“D’ye mind the day?” storytelling project benefits those with dementia
Older people with dementia in deprived areas throughout Northern Ireland are benefitting from the ancient art of storytelling. The Armstrong  Storytelling Trust are using stories to inspire reminiscence and exercise the long term memory of participants on the project, reducing social isolation and increasing activeness for those taking part. Liz Weir, Project Coordinator for the Trust and Storyteller in Residence for Libraries NI is convinced of the healing powers of the ancient art of storytelling. “Even when short-term memory is greatly impaired, our clients can be inspired through stories and music to recite poetry learned by heart in their youth." 


​Check out the short videos on YouTube
 (67) Armstrong Storytelling Trust - YouTube

Take a look through our monthly community news sheet.

​With many Community venues now re opening it will be important that consideration be given to specific risk assessments in light of the pandemic. Insurance companies may want to see a risk assessment for the building and
​one from each organisation that uses the venue.

First and foremost, it is essential to follow Government guidance at all times and be aware of any changes that occur.
We all will still have to think about infection control measures and about how our behaviour needs to change.
Some basics to think about include
· Have a one-way system for entrance and exit and flow of people through the building.
· How can the building be ventilated?
· Encourage everyone to wash their hands / sanitise when entering the building
          – Have appropriate hand sanitisers available.
· Use disposable paper towels to dry hands
· Have tissues, wipes and bins available
· Rooms should be decluttered and surfaces easily wipeable.
· Frequently cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces that are touched
regularly, particularly in areas of high use such as door handles, light switches,
tables, chairs etc. using appropriate cleaning products and methods
· Redesigning room layout to ensure social distancing in place. This will be dependent on planned activity.
· Signage and Posters displayed. Posters and signage on display should be kept up to date with all relevant advice

​This is not an exhaustive list and if you require any assistance in preparing a template risk assessment for your venue please do not hesitate to contact us.

​Support to help you mark the centenary of Northern Ireland and the partition of Ireland - National Museums NI, supported by the Shared History Fund, is providing free access to collections and archives, as well as short term loans, to support organisations delivering their own centenary events and projects.
Please contact: Aileen McEwen, Assistant Registrar (aileen.mcewen@nmni.com) to begin making a loan request; and contact Stephen Weir, Digital Assets Access Officer (Picture.library@nmni.com) to make an image request.
Please leave plenty of time and make sure you reference the Shared History Fund in your request.
All loan and picture library requests must be completed by 31st March 2022

Below is a link to a survey being organised by the ABC Road Safety Committee. The survey aims to gauge older driver needs and help with driver safety. With information gained, the ABC Road Safety Committee can look at workshop needs to help older drivers; especially those who feel less confident after lockdown.
 
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Seniordriver
 
If you are having issues accessing the survey, please contact Clive Bowles on clive.bowles1@btinternet.com
​