A multi-sensory activity and wellbeing programme has been introduced to assist local residents living with dementia and their caregivers. The McCarthy & Stone Foundation, an independent charity that provides grants to non-profit organisations enhancing the lives of older people, has awarded £7,333 to Nuvo Wellbeing. This funding will support individuals with dementia and their carers, while enabling the Middlesbrough community group to continue its valuable work.
Funding from Dementia Grant Programme
The donation comes through the foundation’s annual Dementia Grant Programme, which provides grants to grassroots organisations delivering essential local dementia support services. The programme is designed to strengthen community-based support and ensure smaller organisations can continue providing vital services to those affected by dementia.
Nuvo Wellbeing’s Impact
Nuvo Wellbeing is an award-winning social enterprise that specialises in improving health and wellbeing for older adults, people living with dementia, carers, and care home residents. Through innovative, inclusive programmes, the group helps reduce isolation and strengthen community connections, supporting more than 160 people with dementia and 180 carers every week.
Programme Details
This donation will fund a weekly, 12-month dementia-friendly programme for older adults aged over 65 and their carers. It offers tailored multi-sensory activities and coffee mornings that stimulate memory, promote social interaction, and enhance physical and mental wellbeing. Participants will also gain access to 'Moments That Matter', Nuvo Wellbeing’s activity library, to continue meaningful engagement at home.
The benefits are clear: past programmes have shown that 98 per cent of participants feel happier and 88 per cent feel more socially included. Carers are additionally supported through 'Steps to Wellbeing', a series of online workshops covering motivation, relaxation, mindfulness, nutrition, physical activity, and stress relief.
Community Impact
Beyond individual outcomes, the programme will have a wider community impact, strengthening networks between care homes, GP practices, social prescribing teams, and local residents.
Quotes from Key Figures
Natalie Jones, chief operating officer at Nuvo Wellbeing, commented: "We are delighted to receive this generous support from the McCarthy & Stone Foundation. This funding will help us expand opportunities for older adults living with dementia and their carers in the local area to come together, stay connected, and take part in activities that support their health and wellbeing. It will also enable us to deliver engaging dementia-friendly sessions, provide valuable resources for families, and strengthen the community networks that help people affected by dementia live well and feel supported."
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."
