Memory Bears Project on Mother and Baby Unit
Anderson Ward is a Mother and Baby Unit that provides comprehensive advice, medical and psychological assessment and treatment for women who have recently given birth, are pregnant or who wish to become pregnant.
The mothers on the unit recently took part in a project to make memory bears. The sessions were lead by Anna Creighton, Lead Wellbeing Artist at Studio One, part of our Recovery Pathways service.
What are memory bears?
Handmade Memory Bears are a gorgeous way to reuse garments that really mean something special and hold great memories. Belongings can include coats, neckties, uniforms, t-shirts, blankets and much more.
Ruth Hofmeister, Occupational Therapist on the ward said:
“The Memory Bear Project has been such a wonderful addition to the MBU. Not only has it encouraged mothers to try a new craft activity, it has also enabled them to reflect on their parent role and develop new skills in the process. Many of the mothers used baby grows to build their bears, creating an ongoing connection between them, the bear and their baby."
"The project has been unifying and created a sense of belonging for many of the mothers, who have returned each week. Many parenting groups in the community can often feel overwhelming or hard to return to week in, week out. The Memory Bear Project has helped mothers grow in confidence to be present in these spaces. It's something they can take forward and teach their babies in the future”
