Bright Shadow is an arts organisation supporting people living with, or affected by, dementia. It runs Zest Communities sessions at four Kent locations, including Hythe which has been supported by The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust since 2019.

Zest sessions are themed, participatory and sensory activities for people living with dementia and their loved ones. The inspiring professional artists use a variety of creative activities such as song, movement, music, poetry and visual arts to engage all the senses. The workshops are designed to bring life, energy and fun to individuals and aim to increase social interaction, participation and confidence.

During the pandemic, Hythe Zest sessions have been delivered as a 1-hour online creative session and a one-hour social group, ensuring that no one was isolated. 1-1 sessions in poetry and drama have also been available for those needing an additional creative outlet to feel more like themselves again. Sessions are also extended to those who have been bereaved and lost someone who was living with dementia. Since then, sessions have continued with further funding from RDHCT.

Hythe Zest has so far benefitted nearly 30 people living with dementia and their carers. Bright Shadow, as a whole, benefits approximately 500 people across Kent each year.

More information about Bright Shadow.