Stowmarket Dementia Community Group
Who are we?
The Stowmarket & District Dementia Community Group is a volunteer group working towards making Stowmarket and surrounding villages Dementia Friendly Communities, where people living with dementia feel valued and included. In 2023 we changed from Stowmarket Dementia Action Alliance to work as a group within Red Gables, part of Mid Suffolk Voluntary Organisations Forum in Stowmarket.
History
Sue Calver of Babergh and Mid Suffolk Council and Fiona Palmer of United Response were both involved in the commencement of Hadleigh DAA. Sue still has involvement, however Fiona felt she could be more proactive and involved in helping to create Stowmarket as a Dementia Friendly Community – this being due to knowledge and existing connections in Stowmarket.
Contact was then made with Alzheimer’s Society, Sue Ryder, and Age UK to ensure there was an interest to proceed. This very much was the case and a steering group has been formed in July with a launch planned for October/November 2023.
Interactive Pets
A picture of our interactive pets ‘Joy for All’ by Ageless Innovations.
These interactive companion pets are designed for people living with dementia, to bring comfort, companionship, and fun to aging loved ones. These interactive cats and dogs are all about an ease-of-care and convenience that pairs with technology for the best possible experience.
Tea Dances and Singalongs
Stowmarket and District Dementia Community Group (Or SDDCG) have been able to hold a variety of Singalongs and Tea dances since 2023, thanks to funding from the High Road Festival.
The first Tea Dance was held at the Rookery Bowls Club in Stowmarket on 17th October 2023. This sold-out event was a fun afternoon which consisted of entertainment from Bob, singing with Ralph and delicious afternoon tea.
The Singalongs are often held at The Rampant Horse in Needham Market, where the SDDCG are joined by Mark and Jill from Let’s Sing at Red Gables – a dementia and neurological-friendly relaxed singing group.
If you would like to find out when the next event is, contact Fiona on 07561053164
Achievements
15th July 2023: We are so grateful to Stephen and the team at High Road Festival who raised a whopping £15,000 to aid dementia support. Read more here: https://redgables.org.uk/local-festival-raises-thousands-in-aid-of-dementia-support/
9th February 2024: A huge thankyou to Jules and the team at My Care at Home for raising £337 to MSVOF during their shopping event in Stonham. We look forward to working with you again moving forward.
Contact Us
Fiona Palmer | Chair of Stowmarket and District Dementia Community Group
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