Dementia Action Week: Call for Café Volunteers

Help make the difference to the lives of those living with Dementia across Worcestershire.

Dementia cafés up and down Worcestershire offer a welcoming space which can make all the difference to the lives of those living with dementia and their loved ones. Age UK Wyvern runs nine dementia cafés offering support, activities, a chance to socialise and an all-important cup of tea or coffee to those affected by the disease.

The monthly cafés are free to anyone with a diagnosis of dementia and their carers. Activities range from music to quizzes or arts and crafts, but people are also welcome simply to sit and chat. It can be a fantastic opportunity to meet people in the same situation.

However, these essential resources can only run thanks to the goodwill of volunteers spending a few hours a month helping create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Each café is run by a co-ordinator, but helpers are essential to make attendees feel welcome and to ensure everything runs smoothly. Volunteers might find themselves greeting new members, bringing round drinks, chatting to attendees or helping with activities. More volunteers are welcome at all cafés but are especially needed at Hartlebury, Upton-Upon-Severn and Pershore.

Kelly Reeves, Age UK Wyvern's Dementia Service Manager, made this request, “Volunteers really are at the heart of the service that we provide. Dementia cafés can only thrive with the support of volunteers willing to lend a hand for a couple of hours a month. If anyone in the local area would like to help out, we would love to hear from them. We offer all training needed and you can become part of our wider volunteer network.”