Reminiscence, that is, recollections of memories from the past, is something we all do and the older we get the more likely we are to fall back on our memories. This perfectly natural activity can have a great therapeutic effect on all who take part and provides a great forum for communication between people from different backgrounds.

At TAF, simple reminisence sessions take place from time to time as part of a range of other projects and initiatives. These are often impromptu sessions between members of the traveller community, long-stay residents from St. Joseph’s Hospital and members of TAF from the local community. Often these sessions reveal shared memories of events and activities experience by individuals from these groups, alternatively revealing changes for the better or worse, and sometimes a deeper understanding of how and why events and experiences shape an individuals life.

The reminisence sessions also provide an opportunity to share and learn, enhancing trust, acceptance, friendship and understanding and breaking down barriers. Some of our reminisence sessions have involved younger and older adults, which have also been interesting. Members of the traveller community who took part in reminisence sessions valued the opportunity to learn about the culture and experiences of settled people and to speak about their own lives and what it was like for them growing up in the traveller community.

TAF has just completed working on a structured Reminiscence Project between TAF members, members of the traveler community and long stay resident’s from St. Joseph’s. Stories, traditions and local histories that arose during these sessions, along with songs and games from the past were recorded on a CD entitled "I remember it well".

In 2008 the St. Joseph's Hospital Project also became involved in a reminiscence project "Memories are made of this", a colourful collage of memories and life events depicted through the medium of art.

“… it made such a change in my life… because I’m meeting people and getting used to the ways of the settled people and mixing with them and talking with them.”  TAF member from the traveller community speaking about her experience of a reminisence sessions and other interactions with TAF.

“… when you get to know TAF members, you will speak better to them, you will have better conversations, then you feel more welcome.” A younger member of the traveller community talks about her involvement with TAF.