AS Scotland begins to build inclusive, vibrant dementia friendly communities, events are popping up across the country that are specifically tailored to people who are living with dementia and their companions, carers and family.

From the opulence of opera to the cosiness of a classic film screening complete with tea and biscuits, Scotland’s venues are creating relaxed and supportive spaces for people to enjoy art, film, music and history.

Painting: Katherine Matilda ‘Tilda’ Swinton b.1960, 2001 (Pastel on paper, 48.7 x 68.6 cm, © John Byrne Collection: National Galleries of Scotland) — Pastel drawing: Katherine Matilda ‘Tilda’ Swinton b.1960, 2001 (Pastel on paper, 48.7 x 68.6 cm, © John Byrne, Collection: National Galleries of Scotland)

Scottish National Galleries

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY EVENT: GALLERY SOCIAL – THE MODERN PORTRAIT

Scottish National Galleries offer relaxed and informal guided tours of their exhibitions, with refreshments, for anyone affected by dementia and their relatives, friends and supporters.

The Modern Portrait exhibition displays works featuring well-known figures from science, politics, the arts, business and sport. It’s a cross section of well known Scottish faces from James MacMillan, Alan Cumming and Tilda Swinton to Jackie Kay, Andy Murray and Naomi Mitchison.

Book online or call the Scottish National Gallery Information Desk, 0131 624 6560.

www.nationalgalleries.org/event/gallery-social-modern-portrait

Ayr Gaiety Theatre

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY EVENT: KILDA

Ayr Gaiety Theatre will be hosting a lovely event featuring live entertainment, music and free refreshments – developed exclusively for those living with dementia, their carers and loved ones. Norrie McIver, Mhairi Marwick and Scott Wood together create a lively and energetic sound combining songs from their Scottish roots. Guests will receive a warm welcome and a cuppa on arrival from the venue’s trained Dementia Friends staff.

When: Tuesday 20^th June, 2pm (doors open 1:30pm)

Where: The Gaiety Studio Theatre, Carrick St, Ayr KA7 1NU

Price: £5 / Free for companions

www.ayrgaiety.co.uk

(Martin Forry)

Macrobert Arts Centre

The Macroberts Arts Centre in Stirling holds dementia friendly events on the last Tuesday of every month from 2pm – 4pm. The events change every month but there’s always a guarantee of a cuppa and some biscuits.

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY EVENT: LIVE MUSIC NOW

Pianist and Clarinettist duo Calum Robertson and Juliette Philogene will delight audiences as part of Live Music Now events. Both musicians have played with prestigious orchestras across the UK such as RSNO, Scottish Opera & BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra.

When: Tuesday 30th May, 2 – 4pm

Where: Macroberts Arts Centre, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA

Price: £5; Assisting companion/loved one goes free

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY EVENT: STEP INTO MY PARLOUR

Irish singer Michelle Burke captivates with collection of songs mixed with stories, memories and tales in a quirky inviting parlour setting.

When: Tuesday 27th June, 2 – 4pm

Where: Macroberts Arts Centre, University of Stirling, FK9 4LA

Price: £5; Assisting companion/loved one goes free

National Museum of Scotland

DEMENTIA FRIENDLY EVENT: MUSEUM SOCIALS

National Museums Scotland offer wonderful events for anyone affected by dementia and their relatives and friends. The Museum Socials create a friendly environment where everyone is welcome and all contributions are valued. They are suitable for first-time visitors and for those who might not regularly come to the museum, as well as people who have always loved visiting.

The sessions are relaxed and informal, start with tea and cake, and feature a range of activities inspired by our collections.

When: See times for different exhibitions below

Where: Meet at the Tower Entrance, 10:15 for 10:30

Price: Free, including refreshments

Call 0300 123 6789 to book your place.