AFG creates community circles to help people with dementia in Rochdale

Cath Barton, community circles connector, Alternative Futures Group

North West charity Alternative Futures Group (AFG) is taking a lead in the region by adopting a new community approach to help people with dementia and learning disabilities.

AFG is the first provider to invest in a full time community circles connector who has already made a difference to people in Rochdale living with dementia by helping develop circles of support.

A community circle is a way to support someone through bringing together friends, family and neighbours with a facilitator. A circle can start with two people or several people coming together with a clear purpose before agreeing what the circle can do that will make a difference.

Cath Barton is an experienced trainer and facilitator who prior to joining AFG was an adviser for national charity MacIntyre in all areas of person centred approaches.

She said: “I’m passionate about developing person centred approaches which support people to live the lives they want.

“Circles intentionally build community around a person and help to build relationships and connections with others. Through conversations, supported by a facilitator, a positive difference can be achieved.”

Carol Toner, community service director said: “We are extremely proud in developing the relationship between Alternative Futures Group and Community Circles. We are looking forward to seeing the very real difference having a circle makes in people’s lives”.

Alternative Futures Group was recently shortlisted in this year’s Charity Times Awards for Charity of the Year, with the result being announced in October.