This Is Guernsey

Jan Norman, left, and Jo Dowding of Guernsey Museums and Galleries with items from the last century people have dug out to help those with memory issues. (Picture by Adrian Miller, 0868659)

MEMORY boxes can be the key to unlocking the past for many older Guernsey people.

Islanders were asked to raid their attics, cupboards and sheds and donate suitable items for the project and Guernsey Museums and Galleries access and learning manager Jo Dowding was delighted with the response.

Items from the 1930s to the 1960s have been gifted for the initiative, launched by the museum last month. The boxes are used to encourage people to share and discuss past experiences.

‘We had a fantastic response. Some people came back several times with items. It was lovely hearing the stories behind the objects,’ said Miss Dowding.

She said initially people thought she wanted antiques and precious items but what she needed was objects which typified the era – from Keyho’s paper bags to copies of the Dandy and Beano. There was even a grocery book from the time donated that included brands and prices. ‘For someone interested in social history, that is a lovely item,’ she said.

Jan Norman donated several items including photos, a telegram and her dad’s Red Cross identity card.

She knows first-hand how effective the boxes can be.

‘They really do work to stimulate people’s memories,’ said Mrs Norman. Her mum spent her last year in residential care and would go home at weekends.

‘We went through all the memorabilia and we just sat and reminisced. We didn’t get anything done, but it was the best quality time we ever spent together,’ she said.

The initiative is part of the museum’s outreach programme to help older generations recall the past.

‘I want people to say, “I had one of those”,’ said Miss Dowding.

The boxes are primarily for older people, especially those with memory problems, but have been successful with stroke and brain injury victims.

‘Memory boxes have already proved to be extremely successful in the UK and I’m thrilled to have started the initiative in Guernsey,’ said Miss Dowding.

The museum has an extensive collection from the Victorian and earlier eras but had relatively few more-modern objects.

The boxes are yet to be fully assembled but will be split into categories including Home Sweet Home, A Trip to the Seaside and Make Do and Mend.

Miss Dowding has now been asked to put together up-to-date memory boxes.

They will be available on free loan to residential homes, day centres and any charity.

Article posted on 9th November, 2009 - 2.29pm