Creative Connections

Objective

The aim of this LFT Grantmaking Programme is to sustain and strengthen the sense of belonging and empower people living with dementia through participation in intergenerational and community-based creative arts initiatives.

Context

There are currently over 22,000 people living with dementia in Northern Ireland, according to the Alzheimer’s Society, and this number is projected to double by 2040. 69% of people with dementia say that the main reason they stop being part of the community, going out and being active locally, is a lack of confidence.

Research suggests that public perception and knowledge about dementia are improving but people living with the condition still face significant challenges in their daily lives. Evidence suggests that the actions of local communities can directly impact, positively or negatively, people with dementia to live well with their condition. Communities that place an emphasis on providing proactive and supportive environments, focusing on the strengths and capabilities of people with dementia rather than their limitations, are more likely to build confidence and boost mental wellbeing.

There is a growing understanding that creativity is intact long after other cognitive functions decline and engagement in creative arts has been proven to increase happiness, confidence, self-esteem and reduce stress and social isolation.

We also believe intergenerational activities provide a unique opportunity to enhance learning across all age groups and improve connectedness within communities and for this reason will prioritise initiatives that will incorporate the involvement of different generations.

About Us

LFT Charitable Trust is a Belfast based family foundation offering small grants and support. We build our knowledge by talking to and meeting with individuals and organisations working within our priority areas of health, education and the alleviation of suffering & distress.

Our priority is to fund partner organisations which make a lasting difference to people’s lives; focus on reducing isolation, inequality and stigma; and inspire and empower individuals to realise their potential and share in the life of the whole community.

Application Process

Applications are welcomed from dynamic organisations with relevant experience supporting people living with dementia, the creative arts and/or intergenerational activities.

Examples of projects that could be considered include:

• Dance, theatre and music productions and performances that improve social connections by mutual sharing of experiences
• Storytelling, reminiscence and oral history projects that challenge assumptions and prejudices and build mutual respect between generations
• Creative initiatives that emphasise capability and normalise living with dementia
• Collaborative actions to increase public understanding of dementia and how local communities can support people living with dementia to remain active an engaged in local life

Projects should recognise the main aim of this funding is to fund projects that will sustain and strengthen the sense of belonging and empower people living with dementia through participation in intergenerational and community-based creative arts initiatives.

To apply, applicants should set out their project proposal (no longer than three A4 pages) referencing the following:

• Background to the organisation including relevant experience and/or evidence of demand for your proposed project
• Project description: activities proposed, type of participants, numbers involved, length of engagement etc
• Detailed narrative of how participants (people living with dementia and others) will benefit from engaging in this project
• Planned approach to assess and measure the performance of this project in meeting the objectives of the Creative Connections Grantmaking Programme
• What is the project budget and how much funding are you applying for?

Applications for grants up to £7,000 are invited. Only expenditure incurred for the purposes of the project and that can be directly attributed to the expected outputs/outcomes will be eligible.

As with all funders, it is likely that demand will exceed available funds and so this will be a competitive process.

Priority will be given to initiatives that:

• Promote in-person participation
• Incorporate intergenerational activity
• Offer sustained engagement with the same participants over a period of time, rather than one off events, to facilitate the development of relationships

The deadline for receipt of applications is 5pm Tuesday 23^rd May 2023.

Applications should be made by email to aisling@lftcharitabletrust.com

Eligibility

LFT welcomes applications from prospective Grant Partners who are registered charities, social enterprises and other not-for-profit organisations operating in Northern Ireland.

Financial commitments are envisaged from July 2023 with a requirement to commence project delivery within three months of receipt of a letter of offer. Projects must have a duration of less than 12 months.

Reporting & Evaluation

LFT welcome the opportunity to visit the project during the delivery period and will seek an impact report from funded projects on completion of the project.

Enquiries at any stage of the application process are welcomed by the Secretariat. Grantmaking decisions are made by LFT Board of Trustees.