Community Counts’ focus on Buddies Dementia Café, Nettleham
Welcome to the first special feature in Hello Lincoln’s Community Council strand, which focuses on the work and play at Buddies Dementia Café in Nettleham.
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Buddies Dementia Café offers a warm welcome to visitors on the first and third Thursday of each month in Nettleham Village Hall on Brookfield Avenue.
“We are probably the most successful dementia group in the area, having over 100 members with around 80 regularly attending our meetings,” explained chair and Trustee Lulu Wood.
“We are very much aware of the increasing numbers of people affected by dementia, either as a person living with dementia, a carer, a family member or friend. We offer fun, fellowship, entertainment, refreshments, information and support in a warm friendly space.”
Entertainment is planned with members’ needs in mind as Maureen Sullivan explained: “Music plays a big part in building and maintaining relationships and in supporting the wellbeing of both people living with dementia and those who care for them. That’s why each meeting features live music from a range of professional entertainers.
“Some of our members enjoy singing along or dancing or simply listening. Chatting with others is also important and we enjoy that part of our mornings together too.”
The meetings also feature support from organisations such as Age UK, Carers First and the Alzheimer's Society which offer helpful leaflets and information. Age UK representatives also provide one-to-one support, taking time to listen to any concerns or issues.
Fundraising is an ongoing activity for Buddies’ organisers and it allows them to arrange outings to local venues.
Maureen added: “These are important as they give people living with dementia and their carers the chance to enjoy new experiences in a safe and caring environment.
“So, if you would like to be part of Buddies Dementia Cafe, why not come along and join us from 9.45 a.m. to 12pm? We would love to meet you.”
