A NEW initiative has started as Wellington charity Reminiscence Learning expands its work supporting people with dementia and their families and carers.

The Memorable Adventures Project (MAP) aims to help people with dementia enjoy some of the most beautiful natural spaces the Westcountry has to offer.

The project was set up after identifying an increasing need for people who have dementia and their carers to be able to access the outdoors to improve their wellbeing and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Each week, experienced facilitators and volunteers will lead small groups to a wide range of places and settings, such as canals, coastal areas, forests, and the countryside.

The first visits were to the Grand Western Canal, in Tiverton, and Fyne Court, on the Quantock Hills.

A spokesperson said: “By building a community of like-minded people, MAP hopes to reduce feelings of isolation and despair, improve overall mental and physical health, and create a space where people feel valued and have a sense of belonging.

“It is well-known there are benefits to spending time outdoors, and the Memorable Adventures Project seeks to provide people who have dementia and their carers with the opportunity to continue making use of this wonderful resource when other parts of life can seem overwhelming and difficult.”

Future MAP walks are planned for places including Tarr Steps, on Exmoor, Haldon Forest, near Exeter, and Steart Marshes, on the West Somerset coastline.

The group meets on Thursdays at 9.30 am at Wellington Community Hospital and aims to return by about 3 pm, travelling to their destination on a Reminiscence Learning minibus.

Places cost £50, including refreshments, for clients with dementia, while carers go free, and clients can go on their own, but spaces are limited, so booking is essential.

More information about the initiative can be obtained by calling Reminiscence Learning on 01823 668676.