Supporting people with dementia and those who care for them

This Dementia Awareness Week (18-24 May), Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin is shining a light on the services helping people living with dementia across the county, including its much-valued dementia respite service in Shrewsbury, which currently has capacity to support more local families.

Based in the peaceful and comfortable setting of Withywood, the service runs every Monday from 10.00am to 4.00pm. It offers a welcoming, engaging and supportive environment for people living with dementia, while also providing carers with valuable time to rest, recharge or attend to everyday tasks with peace of mind.

For many carers, taking a break can feel difficult. Emma Wilde, Interim Head of Wellbeing & Friendship services at Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, says the charity understands just how important trust and reassurance are when seeking support for a loved one with dementia.

“We know that caring for someone with dementia can be incredibly rewarding, but also emotionally and physically demanding,” she said. “Having time for yourself matters, but so does knowing the person you care for is safe, happy and genuinely cared for while you are away.”

“Our dementia respite service is delivered by qualified carers, supported by experienced volunteers and dementia support workers, who take the time to get to know every individual and provide person-centred support.”

A warm welcome

The sessions are carefully structured to create familiarity, enjoyment and social connection. Each Monday begins with a warm welcome, hot drinks and conversation before members enjoy music sessions, singalongs and sometimes even dancing, with visiting musicians playing favourite songs from years gone by.

A hot lunch is shared together before the afternoon activities begin, including games, crafts and gentle activities designed to encourage dexterity, communication, confidence and memory stimulation. The day ends, fittingly, with more tea, cake and companionship.

For many attendees, the friendships formed at Withywood are just as important as the activities themselves. Nick, who attends the service regularly, says the atmosphere keeps him coming back. Living with dementia, he particularly enjoys the music sessions and still remembers every word to songs from the 1960s, and his favourite is Nina Simone’s ‘Summertime’.

“I enjoy coming here and meeting other people,” he said. “We’re like a fraternity really. There’s no pressure and you can join in with whatever suits you.”

Another regular member, Janet, describes the sessions simply as “good fun”. “I like the music, doing jigsaws and they make a very good cup of tea,” she laughed.

Molly Seddon, who has worked as a carer with the service for the last 18 months, says the routine and familiarity of the group can make a real difference to people living with dementia.

Person-centred care

“Everybody experiences dementia differently, so we provide very person-centred care,” she explained. “Coming here each week gives people a chance to socialise in a safe, calm and supportive environment, and you really see the benefits that routine and companionship bring.”

Gail Rider is a dedicated member of staff at Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin and helps organise activities at the centre. She says the service has created a close-knit community of members, carers and staff.

“There are lots of laughs here,” she said. “Everyone can take part in activities suited to their own needs and abilities, and we all leave smiling at the end of the day.”

The charity’s dementia support services have also been praised by author Miles Bingham, whose memoir ‘Deadheaded’ reflects on his parents’ experience of dementia and Alzheimer’s.

“Alzheimer’s took both of my parents,” he said. “What really made a difference was the support from Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin. The staff helped my mother navigate the benefits system and access support she didn’t know was available. It was a gamechanger for them.”

Find out more

If you’d like to find out more about Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin’s dementia respite service or you’d like to arrange a visit to Withywood, call us on 01743 233 123 or email enquiries@ageukstw.org.uk