Twiddlemuffs

Knitters in Lichfield are being asked to put their needles to good use for a new NHS scheme to help people with dementia.

Twiddlemuffs
Twiddlemuffs
Twiddlemuffs are thick material worn on the hands with trimmings such as ribbons, beads, buttons and zips attached to the inside and out, designed to combat restlessness and agitation in patients by keeping their hands busy, as well as stimulating the mind.

During Dementia Awareness Week, which runs until Saturday (May 21), Lichfield Library is encouraging residents to join them to create Twiddlemuffs to be donated to local charities and dementia-friendly groups.

Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet member responsible for libraries, Cllr Ben Adams, said: “We are proud to support Dementia Awareness Week and play a small part in helping people whose lives are affected by dementia.

“According to the NHS, Twiddlemuffs have proved so successful in helping patients that they are urging the public to grab their knitting needles to make more so they can keep up with demand.”

Staff at Lichfield Library will have instructions available and there will also be a Twiddlemuffs coffee morning on today from 11am to noon. Advisors from the Alzheimer’s society will also be available to offer advice and guidance.

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.