Through sensory-based activities, resources and training opportunities for care home staff, Spark, (formerly Magic Moments) supports everyone’s right to creative expression.
“I never thought I’d do this again, you’ve brought me to life today.”
Care Home Resident
Led by Associate Artists Lily Ash Sakula and Georgia Akbar, the project fosters meaningful connections and in the moment creativity. Spark’s approach emphasises ways of connecting with residents living with a Dementia, those unable to leave their bed or room, or less likely to join group activities. Residents and staff alike report new found creative confidence, increased sense of wellbeing and a growth in relationships within their homes.
“I’m not much of an artist but I have created something beautiful”
Care Home Resident
15 homes took part in Spark in 2023/2024. All homes agreed that there had been an increase in wellbeing for 50-70% of residents and staff and 14 of them reported an increase in connection for 50-70% of residents and staff.
“The activities created a new dynamic, they unlocked so much.”
“What you think you’re gonna get is not always what you’re gonna get from the box and it’s nice to see their reactions, the element of surprise.”
Care Professional
About the Project
Spark was co-designed by Magic Me Associate Artists with care home staff in Tendring, Essex in 2021 during the pandemic, when artists’ visits to care homes were still restricted. A mix of online sessions and occasional, often outdoor, visits by artists brought fresh ideas, new approaches and ways to combat the isolation and loneliness of lockdown. Activities focus on the sensory – light, colour, texture – suiting people who communicate non-verbally. All the ideas use inexpensive, easily available materials and equipment.
From 2022 recognising the potential of this new approach with artists and care home staff collaborating online and in person to better serve older residents, Magic Me continued to develop Spark. Working in partnership with Essex County Council we have continued to deliver and grow the project with further homes in the county, with a second cohort in 2023 and a new one starting in 2024/25. From 2022 we also brought the idea to homes across London and beyond and by March 2024, the project has reached 104 care staff and 548 residents across 52 care homes in Essex, London and Scotland. Long after Magic Me’s direct involvement, homes report a lasting change in how they view creative activities.
If you are a care home or care provider looking for training and resources please contact us on info@magicme.co.uk
Two collections of Spark activities and inspirations have been designed and published. You can find them here and we encourage you to try them in your care home, experimenting and adapting them for different people and your situation.
Project funders in 2023/24 included Essex County Council, The Charity of Sir Richard Whittington, My Home Life Trust., Rayne Foundation, The Childwick Trust and Players of the People’s Postcode Lottery.