Engaging with community networks, staying socially active, and seeking expert guidance are key to caring for loved ones with dementia, according to Belong Wigan. The leading dementia specialist is marking the return of Dementia Action Week by encouraging local people to take advantage of the support options available.
Support for Unpaid Carers
With the national campaign raising awareness of the condition underway, the Millers Lane care village is reaching out to the thousands of people caring for someone with dementia in their homes. This group typically includes family members, friends, and even neighbours. Statistics reveal that around 1.8 million people in England provide some form of care for those with dementia. On average, these unpaid carers spend about four working days a week offering essential practical and emotional support. A staggering one-third provide more than 100 care hours weekly.
Community Support Services
In recent years, Belong Wigan has expanded its community support, thanks to its not-for-profit status that prioritises people and their wellbeing. Notably, its monthly B's Cafe, a memory cafe offering complimentary coffee and conversation, provides vital respite and social connection for carers. Meanwhile, loved ones can enjoy activities that offer meaningful engagement. The sessions also provide access to Belong's Admiral Nurses, a service in partnership with Dementia UK, offering advice and signposting. These specialists can help arrange assessments with healthcare professionals, attend social services meetings, or advise on securing finance.
Carers' loved ones are also invited to join the vibrant experiences programme at the village, where they can socialise and make new friends while enjoying arts and crafts, intergenerational activities, or exercise classes. More formalised options, such as specialist day care or home care, are available under the Experience Days and Belong at Home Wigan brands.
Message from Belong Wigan
Gill Menguy from Belong Wigan said: “In our experience, there are many families in the community muddling through the complexities 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 it alone. Advice and guidance are out there, even before a formal diagnosis, so this Dementia Action Week, be sure to explore the options and get in touch.”
She added: “It’s important to us that everyone has that support network around them – it's about caring for the carers. Even if it’s just them popping in for a brew, help is on the doorstep.”
More information about Belong Wigan is available at www.belong.org.uk or by emailing enquiries@belong.org.uk.
