Hand i Pockets

This project is a collaboration with Dr. Gail Kenning at University of Technology Sydney and is investigating the design of sensory textile ‘pockets’ for use with people with late stage dementia. Working with health professionals, charities and the public, this project aims to use creative fun to create playful artefacts to amuse, comfort and engage people with dementia. Innovative ways of adding interactive elements through the use of embedded technology are also being explored in the research

The first ‘Hand i Pocket Funshop’ participatory event was held at the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, Australia on 16th and 17th August 2014 as part of the  Maker Faire and Sydney Design Festival 2014.

Many of the pockets were made by participants for a specific friend or family member with dementia. A large textile banner was created with some of the many pockets that were made during the event.

Further Hand i Pocket funshops have been held in the UK during 2015 including a public event at the Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff as part of Age Positive Week. This was supported by Age Cymru and Alzheimers Society.

Hand i Pocket made during the WMC funshop

A Hand i Pocket funshop was also held with Alzheimers Scotland in October 2015 in collaboration with the Tiree Tapestry Group during the Tiree Tech Wave. Pockets made during the day have been given to the Tigh a Rudha care home and members of the island community.