North Yorkshire’s Dementia Forward’s Time Out Together Group paid a visit to RSPB Bempton Cliffs to see the amazing seabird spectacle at its height.
The group had enjoyed a walk on the nature reserve in February and decided to pay a second visit, later in the year, to see the towering cliffs packed with around half-a-million seabirds which nest on the chalk ledges.
Organiser Irene Jervis was delighted that the group, who all have young onset dementia, was keen to come back to the cliff tops:
‘Our first visit proved to be a real favourite. The dramatic location and the stunning sea views really made a big impression on everyone. And we all decided that when the seabirds returned, so would we.’
Kevin Andrews, who drives the group on their outings said:
‘People with this condition can easily become isolated and stuck inside. It’s vitally important that we help them get out and about in a safe environment. The nature reserve here fits the bill perfectly.’
The group tucked into a picnic lunch before heading to one of the six stunning cliff top viewing platforms for a bird spotting session with one of the RSPB’s volunteer guides - keeping a keen eye out for puffins.
Group member, Simonne, is a bird lover and has an aviary at home with lovebirds, canaries and parrots:
‘I love nature and I love it here. The seabirds are really beautiful. ’
Another group member, Derek, said:
‘This is the highlight of the week. It’s a lovely peaceful place full of wildflowers and the jackdaws that hop around the picnic tables are great’.
Communications Officer, Maria Prchlik, added:
‘Being outdoors is a great mood enhancer. Time spent in nature can lower stress levels and lift spirits. It’s a joy to help all our visitors benefit from the soothing power of the natural world.’