Local business group For Entrepreneurs Only have supported members of the Butterflies Memory Loss Support Group to attend The Railway Children, through Hull Truck Theatre’s Give The Gift of Theatre Scheme.
For Entrepreneurs Only are long term members of the theatre’s Spotlight corporate partnership scheme, through which companies can give back to local people by dedicating tickets to enable schools and community groups, who would not otherwise be able to attend, to enjoy the magic of a Christmas show. Their chosen charity, Butterflies Memory Loss, brought a group of its members, including those living with dementia and their families, to see The Railway Children and experience a festive treat together.
Members of the group shared how they felt:
“What a fantastic afternoon out, I am so glad I came!! It really took my mind off things.”
Allen
“It’s been brilliant, I wondered how on earth they would get the train bit on stage, great job!!”
Anne
“It was lovely to see everyone’s faces and them enjoying a day out, we could feel their excitement to be out seeing a show.”
Sara (Butterflies staff member)
Having gained vast knowledge of dementia during her time with the King’s Fund Project in Hull, June Cooke took the step to establish Butterflies. Since then, the group has continued to grow and currently has around 80 members. They enjoy monthly social gatherings, singing, walking, community events, day trips and support for them and their families.
June Cooke, Butterflies General Manager said:
“Many thanks to FEO and Hull Truck for giving us the opportunity to take our members along to the theatre. It’s so important for families living with dementia to feel included and able to attend public events and do ‘normal’ things. This opportunity not only gives families the confidence to get back out there but helps reduce stigma and increase understanding of dementia in the community.
Hull Truck always go the extra mile to make things more comfortable for our members. Simple things like extra signage and are invaluable.”
Jan Brumby, Chief Executive of For Entrepreneurs Only, said:
“FEO’s mission is to help the local economy by creating private sector jobs in Hull & East Yorkshire. We’re delighted to be supporting the Hull Truck Theatre Spotlight Partner initiative and look forward seeing more local people employed in the Arts Sector, both on stage and behind the scenes. As part of the Spotlight scheme, we’re proud to be able to give the gift of theatre to Butterflies Memory Loss Support Group so that their members and their carers can enjoy Hull Truck Theatre’s wonderful seasonal production this Christmas.”
Find out more about:
For Entrepreneurs Only: www.forentrepreneursonly.co.uk
Memory Loss Support Group: www.butterflies.org.uk
Hull Truck Theatre: www.hulltruck.co.uk