The fast-paced environment of busy hospital wards can increase disorientation among
patients with memory problems or dementia, sometimes resulting in the patient’s needs
going unrecognised.
The Forget-Me-Not Scheme was designed to help hospital staff quickly recognise these
patients through the Forget-Me-Not symbol affixed above their bed or worn as a wristband.
After recognising the symbol, staff will clearly and simply explain who they are and what is
happening – as many times as required, easing anxiety, and improving the patient experience.
Throughout this year, a number of Health and Social Care students from North Hertfordshire
College have been volunteering at the Lister Hospital in Stevenage as part of the Forget-MeNot Scheme, designed to support dementia patients to improve their communication,
understanding, wellbeing and overall patient-experience.
After applying for the scheme individually, the Health and Social Care students completed
rigorous training under the guidance of Forget-Me-Not Scheme coordinator, Molly Shepherd.
The group then started working on the wards in Lister Hospital, supporting this national
initiative in their local community. One student commented:
“I have enjoyed talking to the various patients I have seen while volunteering and the
different personalities they all have. I have had serious, sad, happy, and interesting
conversations with patients, and I really do think that I made a difference to their time in
hospital, so I have enjoyed making a change.”
Work experience opportunities like this are vital in preparing young people for their future
roles in industry.
Thanks to the work of Molly and the North Hertfordshire College team, one patient
commented that the group had ‘made him feel like a normal person rather than someone
who is ill’ and that it was ‘a hugely positive experience’.
