Age UK Cheshire’s Bright Memories service is making a real difference to people living with the early and mid stages of dementia.
Bright Memories runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at Castle Community Centre in Northwich, providing an opportunity for people to take part in a wide range of activities, including arts, crafts, games and much more.
The aim of the service is to make sure memory loss doesn’t become a barrier to fun, friendship and stimulation of the mind.
As well as providing an important service to those in the early and mid stages of living with dementia, it offers respite for their carers and families.
When the Bright Memories initiative was first launched, Age UK Cheshire had received a grant from Brightlife, with Cheshire West Voluntary Action (CWVA) offering capacity building support to projects funded through this initiative.
Richard, who attends the group on a regular basis, said: “There are about 10 of us and I’m quite happy chatting to many of them about where we live, the task we’re doing and how we’re doing it.
“I’m sure others have noticed that I like pulling people’s legs a little bit too.”
Ann Staley, Activities Assistant for Bright Memories, added: “It’s a mixture between having fun and recognising we want people to look at numbers and remember things in an enjoyable environment.
“I can go home knowing that I have made a difference and that’s a nice feeling.
“I enjoy doing activities with them and meeting new people because everyone’s got a story to tell, which I love listening to.”
Trish Williams, Services Manager at Age UK Cheshire, commented: “The group’s supported by volunteers and we couldn’t run it without them.”
Each session costs £50 per person, including a two-course meal and refreshments throughout the day.
Anyone wanting to access the service can call: 07917 638820 or email: brightmemories@ageukcheshire.org.uk.
How CWVA supports the community sector
Age UK Cheshire and many other community organisations are supported by CWVA, which aims to:
• champion the community sector
• connect the community sector with other sectors
• share opportunities to help organisations grow
• build resilience within the community sector.
Since the start of 2023, Age UK Cheshire has accessed 25 hours of support from CWVA around funding, promotion, strategic meetings and groups, and volunteer management.
Whether organisations are looking for advice around governance, funding, training, volunteer management or other areas, the experienced CWVA team is on hand to help.
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