Engaging with community networks, being socially active, and accessing expert guidance are the cornerstones of caring for loved ones with dementia, says Belong Warrington as the leading dementia specialist marks the return of Dementia Action Week, encouraging the uptake of support options available to local people.
With the national campaign raising awareness of the condition underway, the Loushers Lane care village is sending a message to the thousands of people caring for someone with dementia in their homes, a cohort typically comprising family, friends, and even neighbours of those in need. Statistics reveal there are around 1.8 million people providing some form of care for people with dementia in England. On average, these unpaid carers spend about four working days a week providing essential practical and emotional support. A staggering one third of the total provide more than 100 care hours weekly.
In recent years, the organisation has ramped up its community support, thanks to its not-for-profit status enabling its focus to be on people and their wellbeing. Notably, its monthly B's Cafe, a memory cafe offering complimentary coffee and conversation, provides both vital respite and social connection for carers, while loved ones can enjoy an activity offering meaningful engagement. The sessions enable access to Belong's Admiral Nurses, a service offered in partnership with the charity Dementia UK, which helps through advice and signposting. These specialists can assist with arranging assessments with healthcare professionals, sitting in on social services meetings, or advising how to secure finance.
Carers' loved ones are also invited to try the vibrant experiences programme at the village to socialise and make new friends while enjoying arts and crafts, intergenerational activities, or exercise classes. More formalised arrangements for specialist day care or home care are also available under the Experience Days and Belong at Home Warrington brands.
Barry Devine, from Belong Warrington, said: “In our experience, there are many, many families in our community muddling through the complexities and emotions of supporting a loved one with dementia. It can feel incredibly isolating and lonely, but our message is that you don’t have to go at it alone. Advice and guidance are out there, even when a formal diagnosis is yet to be made, so this Dementia Action Week, be sure to explore the options and get in touch.”
He finished: “It’s important to us that everyone has that support network around them – it's about supporting people who are supporting others. Even if it’s just them popping in for a brew, help is on the doorstep.”
More information about Belong Warrington can be found at www.belong.org.uk or by emailing enquiries@belong.org.uk.
