Rhondda Cynon Taf has launched an innovative Virtual Reality (VR) training initiative, aimed at enhancing the lives of residents living with dementia in local care homes. The project, supported by a Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) grant through the Council’s Community Development Team, is being delivered by PlayFrame in partnership with Pontypridd Town Council and Pontypridd Men’s Shed.
PlayFrame’s pioneering ‘Inside–Outside’ project uses immersive VR technology to help individuals reconnect with familiar places and experiences. Staff from Interlink RCT and Tŷ Nant, a specialist dementia residential care home in Williamstown, took part in the hands-on training session to learn how to create bespoke VR content for their residents to enjoy.
The training, delivered at Pontypridd Museum and Ynysangharad Park, introduced participants to filming with specialist 360-degree cameras such as the Insta360. Trainees captured footage of the park’s bandstand, walking trails, and pathways before learning how to edit and enhance the videos using dedicated software. Skills covered included cutting footage, layering music, and adding transitions to create a smooth and engaging VR experience.
Attendees were then able to view the final footage through the VR headsets, gaining an insight into how the technology can be used to support memory, wellbeing, and emotional connection for those living with dementia.
With support from the SPF grant, staff at Tŷ Nant are now looking to purchase their own headsets to begin capturing and creating personalised experiences for residents.
Councillor Gareth Caple, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Older Persons Champion, said: “I am excited to see this innovative project launched in Rhondda Cynon Taf. It’s a fantastic example of how technology can be used to improve the quality of life for our older residents, particularly those living with dementia.”
The ‘Inside–Outside’ project was first developed in the COVID-19 pandemic to combat isolation in care homes. It now features a growing library of immersive videos, including locations like Barry Island, Roath Park, Cwm Darran Park, Margam Park, and even Caerphilly Male Voice Choir rehearsals.
To learn more about the project, please visit: www.playframe.co.uk/playframe/projects
Posted on 23/09/2025