Throughout the year, the historic botanic garden is hosting Forget-me-nots, which are a series of sessions designed for people living with dementia or memory-loss, their carers and families. The sessions allow for participants to spend time with friendly staff, volunteers and other individuals on the programme, gently walking in the garden and taking part in practical creative activities. Hot drinks and sweet treats are provided.

With their vibrant colours, distinctive smells and relaxing sounds, gardens stimulate the senses and can therefore be an important dementia support tool, as they’re calming and healing. In response to an instagram post about the programme, @silentspaace said, “I took my mother with me on initial garden visits. She had Lewy Body dementia and her behaviour was often strange and difficult (for us). In a garden she was calm and relaxed which gave me a break too. You will be helping people on many levels. Brilliant.”

The programme enables people to enjoy Chelsea Physic Garden in a pressure-free social setting, without committing to any long-term engagement programmes. Participants can attend just one, or several sessions – it is up to the individual.

Forget-me-nots will take place between 1.30pm – 3.30pm on: Tuesday 20 February, Tuesday 14 May, Wednesday 14 August & Wednesday 6 November. Anyone interested to know more, or to register their interest can call 0207 349 6474 or 0207 352 5646, or email learning@chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk.