The £50,000 grant will support the Care & Share project over the next three years by enabling Community Resource to reach more individuals who may want to join the groups by increasing their outreach efforts and ensuring that people are aware of the sessions and are able to attend should they wish. The groups meet in community venues in Albrighton, Market Drayton and Shrewsbury. The sessions include discussions, word games, quizzes, reminiscing and creative, musical and some physical activities. Speakers also attend at times to share relevant information with group members.
The ‘Care & Share’ dementia support groups offer a place to socialise and make new friends for family carers and family members with mild to moderate dementia. Members can mix with other people who have similar experiences of caring for a loved one with dementia or memory loss.
It is estimated that over 7,000 people currently live with dementia in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin - a number expected to rise. According to Alzheimer’s Society, 40 per cent of people with dementia experience loneliness, a figure that rises sharply among caregivers. The rural nature of the County worsens the difficulties of accessing essential services, leading to an increase in social isolation, emotional distress and physical strain on both individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Caregivers, often spouses or adult children, bear significant emotional and physical burdens, leading to burnout and isolation. Their roles are demanding with little respite or support.
The grant from Shropshire Freemasons comes through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, and is funded by Freemasons, their families and friends, from across England and Wales.
Sue Chalk, Community Resource’s Head of Services for Wellbeing & Care said: “We’re very grateful to Freemasons for their generous grant enabling us to enhance our dementia support groups and support more people living with dementia and their carers. Groups are held twice a month in Albrighton, Market Drayton and Shrewsbury.
"We welcome new members to our Care & Share groups and if anyone is interested in coming along to a group, please don’t hesitate to call us to find out more. We would love to hear from you."
The office is open Monday to Friday, call 01743 360641 or email enquiries@community-resource.org.uk.
Roger Pemberton from Shropshire Freemasons, said: “I’m really pleased we’ve been able to help Community Resource with their vital project helping people with dementia and their families. There is nowhere near enough provision for people with dementia in rural Shropshire and I’m very glad we’re able to assist this excellent charity in helping at least some of those with the very real problems they and their families are facing.”