Ronnie’s knits raise funds for Dementia UK at Blandford Grange

A sausage dog, cupcakes, tea cosies, a patchwork elephant and an array of forget-me-nots have all been on sale at Blandford Grange in Blandford Forum to raise funds for Dementia UK.

The characterful knitted items are all the creations of Activity Co-ordinator Ronnie Gilsenan-Cooper who took up the Dementia UK  ‘30 day challenge’ in June and has raised more than £150 with donations still coming in.

Many of the Dorset home residents are living with dementia and Ronnie is an avid knitter so it made sense to put the two together, said Lead Activity Co-ordinator Emilie Withall.

“Everyone loves the things which Ronnie knits which vary from pin on flowers to cuddly items and lots of ‘twiddle’ toys which people living with dementia love to have in their hands.

“We have had a table set up at the front of the home throughout June so that visitors and staff can make a donation for the items they want. Ronnie has also been knitting to order as two people nearly fell out over who was going to take the cuddly sausage dog home,” added Emilie.

Ronnie also uses her creative knitting skills for a weekly knitting session with residents at Blandford Grange. Many have been keen knitters all their lives and are still able to enjoy the craft sessions which provide a chance to reminisce as well as keeping hands and fingers active and maintaining dexterity.

Blandford Grange is a purpose built care home and part of the Healthcare Homes family of 48 care homes and 11 homecare branches. Blandford Grange is rated Good by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and has a 9.7 out of 10 score on independent review site carehome.co.uk

Pip Rich