Bournemouth Writing Festival launches free creative writing project for people living with dementia

Workshops, home-writing resources and a public celebration at the festival in April to run across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

The Bournemouth Writing Festival has launched a new creative community initiative supporting people living with dementia and their carers across the BCP region.

Recollections is a gentle, welcoming writing project delivered in partnership with Tricuro Cares and Bournemouth University, and supported by Prama, the Dorset charity championing older people and carers. The programme includes a series of free in-person workshops in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, as well as a free downloadable home-writing pack for carers to use if unable to attend in person.

Designed to spark connection, creativity and confidence, each workshop offers a warm and friendly space where participants can explore memories and imagination at their own pace – with plenty of tea, cake, and conversation.

The project culminates in a special public celebration at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum on Sunday 26 April 2026 from 10am, featuring free drop-in sessions for people with dementia and early-stage dementia, a display of writing created in workshops and sent in from home, and PramaLife specialists available for anyone seeking advice or support.

Dominic Wong, Festival Director of the Bournemouth Writing Festival, said:“The festival is here for everyone, and that means using writing to reach people who may not normally be able to access cultural activities. We know that writing – in any form – can spark joy, confidence, connection and dignity, which is why we work with so many parts of the community – from the homeless to Young Carers, children to language students. Every memory, every voice and every story matters, and we want to hear everyone’s words.”

Kevin Bales, Training Manager at Tricuro Cares, said:“Tricuro is delighted to continue our involvement with the Bournemouth Writing Festival. We’ve seen first-hand, through our Adults with Additional Needs workshops, how creative activities can boost wellbeing and reduce isolation. Being able to support people with dementia and their carers through Recollections reinforces our commitment to inclusive, community-focused learning.”

Dr Bradford Gyori, Principal Academic in Digital Storytelling at Bournemouth University, said:“This project gives our students a valuable opportunity to work directly with local communities and to understand the power of storytelling as a tool for connection. Supporting people living with dementia through creativity is a rewarding and valuable experience for them and an important part of the university’s overall mission to br part of the local community.”

Sue Warr, PramaLife Manager, said:“Raising awareness of dementia in Dorset is vital, and initiatives like this help people see that support, companionship and understanding are available. We’re thrilled to be part of Recollections and to meet families at the Russell-Cotes celebration to offer help, guidance and reassurance.”

All activities are completely free, and no booking is required to attend the session at the Russell-Cotes Museum.

The Bournemouth Writing Festival runs from 24^th to 26^th April 2026 in venues across Bournemouth Town Centre with 100 free and ticketed events and activities to inspire writers to write.

This activity is funded by Arts Council England.

Full details, workshop locations and the free downloadable home-writing resource pack can be found at:www.bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk/people-with-dementia-workshops