New YYFM radio play bridges generations to raise awareness of memory loss

A new radio play called “Memory Ain’t What It Used to Be” brings together older residents and school pupils in a moving drama produced by Ysybyty Ystrad FM, with support from charity the Alzheimer’s Society.

Pupils from Hengoed Primary School, members of the society’s Singing for the Brain project, and volunteers from YYFM, created a story based around intergenerational connection.

The story they created begins with an older gentleman sitting alone on a bench, seemingly confused and unsure of his surroundings.

Three children come across him during a walk and gently ask if he’s okay. From this small act of kindness, a touching journey unfolds – one that explores memory, empathy, and the simple beauty of human connection across generations.

Written by Peter Grehan, the drama highlights the voices, experiences, and memories of older people living with memory loss, helping younger audiences build empathy and understanding.

Peter said: “It was inspiring to write for this talented, cross-generational cast, particularly the ‘young at heart’ gentlemen, who demonstrated immense courage performing while battling Alzheimer’s.

The play had its public premiere on Friday June 20 2025 at Glan-y-Nant Memorial Hall, Pengam.

Delyth Jewell, Plaid Cymru Senedd Member for South Wales East, was at the performance and praised those involved.

She said: “What an inspiration this event was. We were treated to a fantastic radio play which not only showcased the amazing talent of the cast, writer and producer, but which also offered hope to people who’ve been touched by dementia in their lives.

“Hearing about how closely the young actors worked with the older cast members gave us a wonderful insight into the intergenerational learning which projects like this can bring.

“Congratulations to the pupils from Hengoed Primary, to YYFM, the writer and producer and everyone who’s been involved in this brilliant project. It deserves to be heard and celebrated by people throughout the community – and beyond.”

Steven Johnson, YYFM’s technical director, oversaw the recording of the play and said: “This story epitomises how we all unknowingly inhabit a ‘community of communities’. It connects primary school pupils with those of advanced years, to provide invaluable insight into the challenges of memory loss, across the generations.”

Steven Davies, YYFM’s project lead added: “It was a pleasure to be involved in this wonderful production, which we hope will benefit so many people in different ways.

“A heartfelt thank you to Peter Grehan for writing such a lovely play, and to Steve Johnson for his outstanding work on the recording and audio editing.

“We’re also grateful to Lynne Hughes Williams for the beautiful visual images that bring the story to life, and a big thank you to Cath Young and Robert Young for providing a brilliant venue and refreshments.

“And of course, sincere thanks to the amazing cast from Singing for the Brain and the enthusiastic pupils of Hengoed Primary School — you made this project truly special.”

For more information on local dementia-friendly services, visit www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-us/wales