Residents of Hafod Residential Home and users of Canolfan Meugan in Cardigan have taken part in the Hel Atgofion project with Chief Bard Ceri Wyn Jones and local artist Cathryn Gwynn, creating work shown at Eisteddfod y Garreg Las in Llantwd in August.
Jones was commissioned to write a poem for residents of Yr Hafod. He held a workshop beforehand to gather their memories, experiences and feelings about life at the home.
Ceri Wyn Jones said: “I had a wonderful invitation to come here to help the residents of Yr Hafod create a poem about the experience of living in this special home. I chatted with them about their early memories and about their recent experiences here. Everyone praised the care, community and welcome they have received, and I was keen to convey that in the poem. Hopefully we have managed to create something that fairly reflects their experiences.”
Gwynn ran an art workshop with Yr Hafod residents and Canolfan Meugan service users, inspired by the idea of home and memories linked to familiar objects and materials.
Cathryn Gwynn said: “I used a variety of materials and fabrics because things like blankets, curtains, tablecloth and cushions are an important part of the memories we have of our homes. It was a very creative project that enabled everyone to contribute in a meaningful way.”
Nerys Lewis, Corporate Manager for Direct Services, Porth Gofal at Ceredigion County Council, said: “We are very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with CERED and Ceredigion County Council on this hugely important project in Hafod. Not only has it created a stronger sense of community and friendship, but it has also given us the opportunity to celebrate our language, culture and art in such an inclusive way. Everyone who has taken part has thoroughly enjoyed the experience.”
Councillor Catrin M S Davies, Cabinet Member responsible for Culture, Leisure and Customer Services, said: “The project highlights the positive impact that creative activities can have on wellbeing, confidence and social connections, while also celebrating the Welsh language and our rich cultural heritage. It is wonderful to hear of the residents working alongside talented local artists and contributing to work that was showcased at such a significant event, the Eisteddfod.
“As we mark International Older Persons’ Day today, this project is an opportunity to celebrate the wealth of memories, experiences and creativity that older people can share with us.”
The project is a partnership between CERED Menter Iaith Ceredigion and Ceredigion County Council’s Language Policy Officer. Activities have included singing sessions, creative work, quizzes, boccia and intergenerational visits with local school pupils.
The scheme now runs in care homes across Ceredigion, including Aberystwyth, Tregaron, Aberaeron, Lampeter and Cardigan, promoting daily use of the Welsh language and residents’ wellbeing.
