Sherwood Forest Hospitals’ Library and Knowledge Service has been picked out for a national award thanks to the success of a groundbreaking project to help people with dementia.

The Sally Hernando Award for Innovation has been presented to the service for the development of dementia kits, which help patients feel less frightened when they are admitted for emergency care.

Available at King’s Mill, Newark and Mansfield Community hospitals, the resources include reminiscence kits, games and picture books, which are used by relatives and carers visiting patients on wards. They tackle disorientation and anxiety, stimulate the patient’s mind and provide a diversionary activity that prevents of reduces potentially disruptive behaviour.

The Trust’s Primary Care Librarian, Alison Sherratt, said: “Patients with dementia are often admitted to hospital as an emergency with an unrelated condition. Once on a ward, in unfamiliar surroundings, they can become increasingly anxious and agitated, potentially causing disruption that adds to the staff’s workload.

“Although the scheme only started last September, it has been well-received by the wards. Staff say the patients find the kits entertaining and engaging, which helps with their behaviour and makes them feel less anxious.”