A NEW social project which aims to delay the onset of dementia has secured funding.

Unforgettable Experiences aims to stimulate brain cognition, whilst offering interactive and practical support to older people, through a series of weekly arts and cultural activities online.

The service is eligible to those who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or mild to moderate dementia, but also to self-referrals who have been unable to yet receive a diagnosis.

Participants will be taught how to get online so they are able to take part in art, music, dance, performing arts, history amongst other activities.

The company will also provide technology for people to use if they do not have access to a mobile phone, tablet or computer.

The sessions aim to help keep participant's brains active whilst they remain independent, active and socially connected.

The project was awarded £50,000 funding from Innovate UK as part of a national call for business-led innovation in response to new and urgent needs during and following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Victoria Burnip, Chief Executive Officer, Unforgettable Experiences, said: “We’re thrilled to have been awarded funding from Innovate UK. We’re keen to evidence how this type of support could be delivered online to support a number of older people across the UK and encourage collaboration between arts, health and social care sectors, which have also been heavily impacted by Covid-19."

As a result of funding received from Innovate UK, Unforgettable Experiences has been able to employ four part-time staff to deliver the project.

So far, the team have built strong relationships with the NHS, Adult Social Care, Alzheimer’s Society and Mind. The National Centre for Innovation and Ageing have agreed to provide qualified academics to independently evaluate the service and evidence the wider social impacts.

Darlington Borough Council also contributed to funding a number of the online activities.

Cllr Andy Keir, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for local services, said:“ We’re delighted to be able to support this valuable project through Creative Darlington, which in turn will help support local artists. We look forward to hearing what a difference it can make."