A funding boost will ensure local people living with dementia and their care partners can continue accessing a popular community space.
The McCarthy & Stone Foundation, an independent charity that provides grants to non-profit organisations improving the lives of people later in life, has awarded £7,500 in funding to a local Bradford South charity. This donation will support those living with dementia and their carers, as well as enabling the charity to continue its valuable work in the community.
The funding has been distributed through the foundation’s annual Dementia Grant Programme, which provides grants to grassroots organisations delivering vital local dementia support services. This programme is specifically designed to strengthen community-based support and ensure smaller organisations can continue delivering essential services to those affected by dementia.
Bradford District and Senior Power is a dementia-friendly centre, supporting those aged more than 65 and their carers to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. The charity’s services improve participants’ wellbeing and support them to remain active and connected with their community.
This donation will enable the charity to continue running its 'Memory Lane Cafe', a community space offering regular opportunities to those with dementia for social interaction through shared meals, activities and entertainment. Carers also benefit from the programme, having a safe space to share experiences and develop friendships.
Kay Wright, development manager at Bradford District & Senior Power, commented: “We are delighted to receive this funding from the McCarthy & Stone Foundation. This support will help us continue providing a welcoming and inclusive space for people living with dementia and their carers to come together, build friendships and feel part of their community. The funding will also enable us to continue offering regular opportunities for social connection, shared experiences and meaningful activities that enhance wellbeing and help reduce loneliness for those we support.”
Andrew Burrett, trustee at the McCarthy & Stone Foundation, added: “Small charities and community groups play an essential role in supporting people living with dementia and the families and carers around them. We know unrestricted funding is particularly valuable, as it enables them to respond flexibly to the needs of the people they support. Through our Dementia Grant Programme, we are proud to help these organisations continue providing compassionate, life-changing services within their local communities.”
