Bringing heritage to disadvantaged groups

Aim

The WSRA is seeking funding to the amount of £8,000 to pay for 4 free ‘Memory Trains’ reaching out to 200 dementia sufferers & their carers

The West Somerset Railway (WSR) is a 23-mile-long steam heritage railway running through the heart of West Somerset – the longest in fact in England.  Started in 1871, the railway is one of the largest tourist attractions in the area bringing around 200,000 visitors each year. The organisation has become an integral part of the wider local community, providing employment and volunteering opportunities and boosting the local economy through tourism. 

The West Somerset Railway Association (WSRA) is a community led, member driven, charitable association. Our aim is to preserve and restore the heritage of the WSR, to fundraise, promote education, ensure community involvement, and to leave a legacy for future generations. The heritage railway operates steam trains along its line as its core activity; however, it also has a large number of other activities including educational visits, heritage restoration, museums, local events like the 1940’s weekend, an annual steam gala, and even Santa trains for the younger generation!

The Project

The WSRA are seeking funding to pay for a new project, organising 4 free memory trains over the year to support 200 dementia sufferers and their carer’s.

Heritage railways and community rail networks across the UK frequently operate dementia-friendly "memory trains" and memory cafes in vintage carriages. The project will be specially designed to evoke nostalgia and well-being. The sensory-rich journeys will feature vintage tea and lunches, singalongs, and relaxed environments that stimulate memory recall and offer safe, welcoming days out for people living with dementia and their carer’s.

The project emerged to provide support and services to enable people living with dementia to live better and maintain their independence and well-being. We want these experiences to bring joy, laughter and a meaningful connection. The sessions will be packed with fun, themed activities that keep minds active, boost confidence, and lift spirits.

Our volunteers and Community Engagement Officer will be on hand to offer support and to ensure everyone has an enjoyable trip. The activities will be run by Reminiscence Learning (a dementia charity from Wellington). 

Why it is needed

In the NHS Somerset Integrated Care Board area, an estimated 10,000 people are living with dementia. Of these, approximately 5,800 have an official NHS-recorded diagnosis. Because these figures are growing faster than the national average, finding post-diagnosis support is a priority across the county. The word 'dementia' describes a set of symptoms that over time can affect memory, problem-solving, language and behaviour. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia.

Memory training and cognitive stimulation exercises can help delay cognitive decline, improve daily function, and boost emotional well-being for individuals with mild-to-moderate dementia. While these activities are not a cure, clinical frameworks like cognitive stimulation therapy show that structured brain engagement can match the effectiveness of some anti-dementia medications without the accompanying side effects.

We know that the historic environment can do wonders for people's wellbeing. Green spaces and inspiring locations full of history can transport people to another time, boost their mood and reconnect them with the things that bring us joy. Our project attempts to bring those benefits to vulnerable people, getting them out of their normal environment, in turn building their self-belief and encouraging positive wellbeing.

Pilot Project

In 2025 we ran a pilot project with Reminiscence Learning: On 24 June 2025, a delightful group of clients, carers and staff from Reminiscence Learning dementia charity based in Wellington, travelled on the steam train from Bishops Lydeard to the picturesque village of Stogumber. We were pleased to be able to include those with limited mobility, due to the adapted carriage and ramp available. 

The group enjoyed train-related activities during their journey and continued with music, dancing and a spectacular cream tea in the beautiful gardens of Stogumber station, while watching the steam trains pass by. The weather was kind to us and the warm sunshine made it the perfect summer’s afternoon. 

They rated the overall experience as: ‘Excellent’

From Reminiscence Learning’s social media: 

On Tuesday 24th June, we were delighted to be invited by the wonderful team at West Somerset Railway Association for a return journey on the steam train from Bishops to Stogumber.

Clients, their carers, and RAS staff enjoyed a day full of sunshine, smiles, and steam! 

• The atmosphere was joyful, with train-themed quizzes, fun activities, and even a spot of dancing at the station, proving that laughter really is the best kind of travel companion. 
• A huge thank you to everyone at West Somerset Railway for going above and beyond to make this trip so special. 
• Your kindness, care, and enthusiasm made the day unforgettable for all involved.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 2nd September 2026 at 2:57pm