Cramlington – a dementia-friendly town

Cramlington residents and organisations are striving to make Cramlington a dementia-friendly town.

The Living Well with Dementia Thursday sessions at Beaconhill Community Centre have proved to be so popular that the group now also meets on Tuesdays.

The sessions, run by the Royal Voluntary Service, are designed for people with mild to moderate dementia or cognitive impairment. The sessions offer a range of stimulating and purposeful activities that promote good physical health and mental wellbeing. These include crafts, cookery, nature-based activities, games, puzzles, and gentle exercise sessions. Activities can also help with maintaining social skills. Carers are welcome and can take part in the morning sessions and join the group for lunch if they wish.

£12.50 per session including lunch for individuals with dementia (£4.50 for carers if having lunch).

For more information or to book please contact Margaret by emailing: margaret.facey@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk or call: 07500 033349.

In her role as Cramlington Town Mayor Councillor Loraine De Simone visited the Dementia Matters Day Support Centre at Nelson Industrial Estate in Cramlington.

Mayor Loraine has long been a supporter of dementia focused initiatives and she chose the Alzheimers Society as her mayoral charity.

Impressed by what she saw at the centre Loraine said “I think this is a great facility for Cramlington – it allows those living with dementia to socialise in a safe and friendly environment and it also gives their carers some respite and the opportunity to chat with others in similar situations.”

The Day Support Centre staff offer a stimulating environment with a touch of fun and sense of purpose for those who attend. They provide company and compassion, delicious meals and drinks to aid with nutrition and hydration needs.

For more information or to make a referral, please call 0191 217 1323 and ask to speak to Rebecca or email rebecca.long@dementiamatters.net

Another Cramlington initiative that may help people living with dementia is Manor Walks’ Quiet Hour, held on the first Sunday of the month from 10am -11am. The music is turned off and the lights are dimmed with the intention of offering a bit less hustle and bustle and giving shoppers a easy and relaxed experience.

Pictured (top) the Living Well with Dementia session at Beaconhill Community Centre and (below) the Dementia Matters Day Support Centre at Nelson Industrial Estate.