Plans for Windrush museum in Oldbury aimed at people with dementia
An original 1960s front room aimed at helping those with dementia would be part of a proposed new Windrush museum in Oldbury.
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The plans for a new exhibition space and learning centre dedicated to the Windrush generation in Popes Lane have been submitted to Sandwell Council.
The exhibitions would be designed to help those with dementia to remember life between the 1940s and 1970s – dedicated facilities that were “few and far between” according to the application.
The centre would also prove an “invaluable” resource for those with dementia as well as their own children, grandchildren and families to learn about the Windrush generation.
The new museum would also boast a vintage analogue recording studio as well as other permanent and loaned exhibitions focused on those who arrived in the UK from Caribbean countries between the late 1940s and early 1970s.
The name ‘Windrush’ derives from the HMT Empire Windrush ship which brought one of the first large groups of Caribbean people to the UK in 1948.
As the Caribbean was, at the time, a part of the British commonwealth, those who arrived were automatically British subjects and free to permanently live and work in the UK.
A statement included with the application said: “This proposal extends a caring hand by providing a facility that is run by people from that generation and who cherish those memories to offer them a place of respite, peace and joy where they can connect, learn and no doubt inspire others.
“The proposal will bring much-needed historical teachings for those who wish to learn more about the Windrush generation and its assimilation within the UK. The centre will tell a fascinating story which will directly benefit those of the Windrush generation who react fondly to the pieces which the centre is able to offer.
“As with any community, there are now elderly generations who desperately need to reconnect with their memories, and without offerings such as the one which this proposal sets out, there is seldom opportunity to do this.
“The importance of this proposal is that it will not temporarily set up shop within a pub or museum, but be permanently dedicated to the Windrush generation. This proposal will prove invaluable to those from the generation who wish to reminisce, as it is vital to their mental health and wellness.”
