Essex Freemasons delivered a county-wide programme of festive support, from care home concerts to parties for vulnerable children, showcasing their evolving community role. Discover how they're making a difference.
Get a free 24-page Brain Games for Adults magazine inside the Sunday Mercury. Packed with puzzles to boost memory and sharpen thinking, it's the perfect New Year brain workout. Pick up your copy!
Dementia is the UK's biggest killer, yet a third of cases are undiagnosed. Learn the key signs that differ from normal forgetfulness and why early action is crucial for support.
Residents at Copperfield Court in Broadstairs relived their youth this Christmas thanks to personalised diecast model gifts from iconic British toy firm Corgi. Discover how nostalgia boosts wellbeing.
New research reveals five key principles of a Mediterranean diet that could enhance brain health and reduce dementia risk, impacting over 944,000 people in the UK. Discover the simple dietary changes that could make a difference.
Broughton House Veteran Care Village in Salford receives a £100,000 Army Benevolent Fund grant to enhance dementia care, activities, and quality of life for its elderly veteran residents.
Peter Andre shares an emotional update on his mother Thea's declining health from Parkinson's and dementia, fearing it could be her last Christmas. Read his touching tribute.
New research reveals a stark generational gap in readiness for dementia care, with men over 45 feeling significantly less prepared. Nationwide and Dementia UK urge those affected to seek support.
A comprehensive guide to Christmas services, carol concerts, and community events across Conwy, Gwynedd, and Anglesey. Find times for Midnight Mass, Christingle, and festive celebrations near you.
Singer and guitarist Joe Ely has died at 78 from complications of Lewy body dementia and Parkinson's. The Texas legend toured with The Clash and The Rolling Stones. Read the full tribute.
Churches across Rochdale, including St Luke's, St Mary's, and St Chad's, have released their schedules for Advent and Christmas services, community groups, and fundraising events. Find service times, study groups, and festive activities.
New research reveals that changes in driving habits, tracked by GPS, can detect mild cognitive impairment with 87% accuracy. Learn how this could lead to safer roads and earlier interventions.
Latest developments from Dudley Council include major housing approval, rent increases for tenants, and service challenges in children's care and mental health.
Construction restarts on Berwick's £35m community hospital with a new interim contractor after Merit's administration. The NHS trust reassures the community on progress.
Discover how Nazila Husanovic-Gladwyn uses her lived experience to support families and improve mental health services at Essex NHS Trust. Learn about this vital role making a real difference.
Keysoe Cuddle Therapy Ponies provide free animal-assisted therapy for children with eating disorders. Discover how these gentle ponies complement NHS CAMHS teams across Bedfordshire.
Pets at Home reports 33.5% profit drop as retail business struggles. Bosses announce urgent action plan including £20 million cost-cutting programme to revive the 34-year-old chain.
A major 999 response in Small Heath was triggered by a teenage egg and flour fight mistaken for a hazardous materials incident. Three children were assessed by paramedics.
A 15-year-old boy has tragically died after becoming unwell on a school bus in Dunfermline. Police are investigating the unexplained death as the school offers support.
Complaints against Solihull Council have surged to a three-year peak, driven by issues with waste collections and highway maintenance. Discover the key findings and the council's response.
Stockland Green and Summerfield health centres in Birmingham will transform into neighbourhood health hubs with GPs, dentists and pharmacists under one roof as part of a national NHS initiative to reduce waiting times.
Ofsted inspectors found high caseloads are hindering Dudley Council's children's services. While social workers are dedicated, service delivery remains inconsistent. Read the full report.
A serious road traffic collision involving a bus, truck, and car in Co Meath has left multiple people feared dead. Emergency services are on the scene. Read the latest updates.
New research reveals arginine, a natural amino acid, could prevent harmful brain plaque linked to Alzheimer's disease. Discover the potential breakthrough for neurodegenerative conditions.
Karl Poxon, 50, has been charged with arson after three separate house fires in Ashby, Leicestershire. Three people were hospitalised. Read the latest updates.
Scientists discover a common amino acid supplement could reduce Alzheimer's risk by preventing harmful brain plaque. An 'exciting' development for UK dementia care.
A 50-year-old man is in custody after three houses were deliberately set on fire in Ashby-de-la-Zouch, leaving two teenagers and a woman in hospital. Police urge witnesses to come forward.
Missed payments and unusual spending can signal dementia years before diagnosis. Learn the 5 key financial red flags and how to protect your loved ones.
St Mary's, St Chad's and St Andrew's churches in Rochdale announce their Christmas services, community events and special programmes for all ages. Join the festive celebrations.
Law firm Knights announces 30% revenue growth to £103.2m and expands into Wales with a new Cardiff office. Discover how the firm plans to sustain its growth trajectory.