Voices of comfort: Snapshot Memory Boxes to Support People with Dementia

A Snapshot Talking Memory Box

People living with dementia in Suffolk have been participating in a creative project designed to help with their well-being through sound and images, thanks to funding from the Let’s Talk Dementia Fund, provided by Communities Together East Anglia.

The initiative is being delivered by Chronicle Community Story Projects CIC and is introducing residents from local care homes to innovative Snapshot Memory Boxes.  The boxes are beautifully designed photo frames that combine a cherished image and personal voice recordings from loved ones.

Each box is uniquely personal and configured for the recipient, featuring audio recordings and a photo contributed by family members and carers.  Past projects have used wedding photographs, family portraits and holiday snaps accompanied by a partner, family or friends’ voices recalling special memories; the laughter of grandchildren with words of affection, or gentle words of reassurance reminding people that they are safe, loved, and cared for. The boxes use these recordings of familiar voices and images to evoke comfort, reassurance, and connection for people living with dementia.

So far five boxes have been created for residents of Manor Farm Care Home in Kessingland and the boxes are being well-received.

Amanda Loud, Activities Coordinator at Manor Farm Care Home, said:

 “We’ve been really excited to give Snapshot boxes to some of our residents.  The idea of using the recognisable voices of loved ones to bring reassurance and joy to residents is something that really resonates with our approach to person-centred care. The initial reaction to the boxes has been amazing and we have been seeing tears of happiness already. We look forward to seeing how the boxes work longer term as part of this exciting project.”

John Royle from Chronicle explains:

“We believe that the sound of a familiar voice has a uniquely powerful effect. Through this community project, we hope to build on our existing research to understand more about how hearing loved ones’ voices, alongside meaningful photographs, can reduce anxiety, nurture connection, and bring a sense of calm and belonging to those living with dementia.”

The project builds on our mission to use recordings of familiar voices to enhance wellbeing and connection in care settings.

Tracey Walsh, Project Manager from Communities Together East Anglia, added:

“The Let’s Talk Dementia Fund, delivered by Communities Together East Anglia, previously provided small grants for local projects that improve understanding and support for people and families living with dementia in the Aldeburgh, Leiston, and Saxmundham area. Although the fund has now closed, its legacy continues through community collaboration and creative approaches that make a meaningful difference to everyday life.”

The Chronicle team is seeking further contact from care staff, residents, relatives, at other local care homes to create personalised Snapshot boxes. 

Each participant receives support to select a meaningful photograph and record short audio clips, such as stories, shared memories, or gentle messages, to include in their box. The process will also explore how these shared creative moments can strengthen family connections and support carers in their vital work.

Chronicle hopes the project will pave the way for a wider rollout of Snapshot Memory Boxes across other care settings, inspiring more families to capture voices and stories that bring comfort and connection to people living with dementia.

For more information, please contact John Royle at john@chroniclestories.co.uk or call 07752 191710.  Further details about the Snapshot Memory Boxes can be found at www.snapshot-box.life

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Notes to editors:

About Chronicle Community Story Projects CIC:

Chronicle Community Story Projects CIC is a not-for-profit organisation based in Suffolk that delivers community focused projects focused upon local memories and stories.  It is the sister organisation of Chronicle Digital Storytelling Ltd.

About Communities Together East Anglia and the Let’s Talk Dementia Fund:

Communities Together East Anglia is a regional charity supporting community well-being and connection through partnership initiatives and local funding programmes. The Let’s Talk Dementia Fund was designed to improve understanding and local support for families affected by dementia in the Aldeburgh, Leiston, and Saxmundham area.

About Manor Farm Care Home:

Manor Farm Care Home provides residential and dementia care in a warm, supportive environment, focusing on person-centred approaches that honour each resident’s story, individuality, and well-being.