Age UK Somerset calls for community views to shape new dementia support programme

Age UK Somerset is calling on people across Somerset to complete a short survey to share their views and help shape the development of a new Dementia Wellbeing and Connection Programme.

Initially focusing on the Sedgemoor area, the proposed programme aims to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation and help people living with dementia, and those who care for them, remain connected within their local communities.

The proposed programme will bring together a range of support, including a Dementia Choir offering opportunities for music and social connection, Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) groups and a 1-to-1 home-based CST programme.

The home-based support is intended to help people who may be unable to attend group sessions because of mobility difficulties, limited transport or rural isolation. Transport provision is also being considered as part of the programme.

Age UK Somerset recognises that people affected by dementia can face significant challenges when trying to access support, particularly in rural communities where transport and local provision may be limited.

To ensure the programme reflects local needs, the charity has launched a community survey and is particularly keen to receive responses from people living with dementia, carers and family members, professionals supporting people affected by dementia, and local community organisations.

Feedback gathered through the survey will directly influence the development of the programme and will also help Age UK Somerset strengthen funding applications to bring the proposed support to life.

People across Somerset are encouraged to complete the survey and share it with others who may have valuable experiences or views to contribute.

The survey can be found online at https://tinyurl.com/DementiaServicesSurvey

Alternatively you can call the Dementia Services team at the charity on 01823 345613.