Zest Groups

“You come in feeling low and you leave on a high…”

Gill Butchard, Bright Shadow Trustee

A group of participants stand and sit in front of a large wooden structure they have decorated together. There are flags, felt cut-outs, and the Bright Shadow logo.image credit: Bright Shadow
A group of participants are sitting around a table in a bright, airy room. There are drawing supplies on the table and participants are smiling.image credit: Andrew Hayes-Watkins

Zest Groups are safe and accessible. They introduce a rich mix of arts experiences that are mood-boosting, invigorating and which enhance communication and relationships.

They bring life, energy and fun to communities and are an affirming and exciting way to help people continue to lead fulfilling lives.

FAQs

A South Asian dancer in traditional green, red and gold Indian dress is dancing. Her hands are raised and her body is tilted to one side.image credit: Jen Holland

Zest group sessions are shaped to indvidual needs and are safe and accessible.

You don't need to have experience of being creative to enjoy them. They offer a wide range of creative activities designed and led by professional artists based on the interests and needs of those taking part.

A man and woman in the background are sitting at a table, smiling. There are flowers on the table in front of them. Another woman is working on her piece of art.image credit: Jen Holland

Zest groups happen on a weekly basis in four locations across Kent and Medway.

If we have a space in the group of your choice, you can join at any time and carry on coming for as long as you like. You can attend on your own or with support, everyone who comes takes part together.

Zest groups currently take place in:

Medway

Tuesday 10am - 12pm

At: Sun Pier House, Medway Street, Chatham, Kent ME4 4HF

Get in touch to find out more and book your taster session.

Whitstable

Tuesday 2-4pm

At: Whitstable Umbrella Community Centre, Oxford Street, Whitstable, Kent CT5 1DD

Get in touch to find out more and book your taster session.

Dover

Thursday 2-4pm

At: Riverside Community Hub, Maison Dieu Gardens, Dover, Kent, CT16 1RL

Get in touch to find out more and book your taster session.

Read on below for some frequently asked questions, and for a form to get in touch for more information, including how to join a session:

FAQs

What happens after I get in touch with you?

We'll get back in touch to find a suitable date to come along to a session as a free taster, so you can see for yourself if you'd like to join on a regular basis.

What happens at a Zest session?

The Zest Coordinator will welcome everybody, and then the artist or artists that we are working with at the time will offer up creative experiences based on their own expertise. We have a range of artists that come to Zest, from musicians, to poets, to visual artists and more. Each artist will typically come along to 4 sessions in a row, then we'll invite someone different in. Our Coordinators are the familiar face of each group and will let you know what's coming up!

Each session always ends with a chance to catch up over a cup of tea or coffee, and some biscuits.

Who is welcome at Zest sessions?

Zest is for anyone with dementia or memory problems, and we don't require a diagnosis. Supporters are equally as welcome! Some people come independently, some dropped off and collected, and some attend with a supporter.

My loved one needs help with personal care. Can they come alone?

No, we don't provide personal care so your loved one would need to come along with a supporter.

If I’m not able to come every single week, what happens?

That's not a problem! You'll be welcome back any time, as long as we have a space. We understand that from time to time you may not be able to come through illness, appointments, having a particularly bad day or due to special occasions and that's fine.

Is there a charge for attending?

Sessions are free of charge - we ask for donations to support our work. Our suggested donation is £5 per session. Bright Shadow is a charity, and we fundraise to make Zest happen - so donations from those able to give are essential.

Do you provide transport?

No, we don't provide transport but we can let you know of community transport schemes in your area.

Get signed up to a Zest Group

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    image credit: Jen Holland

    “After the session, I feel brighter walking back to the train. I’m bouncing along thinking about the things we’ve done and what I’ve been able to accomplish … It’s important to accomplish something every day”

    David, Zest Session Participant

    image credit: Andrew Hayes-Watkins
    Two male participants are stood in front of a younger woman. They are all facing right, with their arms raised out wide in front of them, at shoulder height.image credit: Andrew Hayes-Watkins

    What to expect at Zest

    video credit: Al Reffell
    Creative Programme
    Volunteer