Memory Wellbeing Cafes launched in Rochdale

Alzheimer’s Society logo

Six new Memory Wellbeing Cafes are set to open across the borough of Rochdale.

The aim of the cafes is to provide a sociable meeting place for people living with dementia and their carers.

The service has been launched by the Alzheimer’s Society and Partnerships for Older People Projects (POPPs).

Sue Clarke, Greater Manchester Locality Manager from Alzheimer’s Society which has been commissioned by Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council and NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale to set-up and run the cafes, said: “The Memory Wellbeing Cafes provide an opportunity for people with dementia and their carers to come together in a safe and welcoming environment where they can speak with each other, volunteers and professionals for support.

“The cafes, which are based in the communities where they are most needed, have worked very well in other areas of the North West. They can help prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation by giving visitors the opportunity to speak to other people in similar situations as themselves.”

Each cafe will run for approximately two hours, with professionals from different organisations providing relevant information on a series of topics on a one-to-one or group basis. As well as this, activities, such as singing and dancing, will also be organised.

Ms Clarke added: “There are more than 26,500 people with dementia in Greater Manchester* so services such as the Memory Wellbeing Café are vital to support people to live well with dementia. It is encouraging that Rochdale Metropolitan Borough Council has recognised this and is commissioning appropriate services to meet this need.”

To mark the new services on offer, local residents are invited to the Memory Wellbeing Cafe launch event at Rochdale Town Hall on 22 November, 2010 from 11am – 2pm.

For further information contact Tania Taylor at the Alzheimer's Society who will be setting up the cafes on 01706 926666.