Two years ago, on March 7 2017, Dementia Matters in Powys set up the first Dementia Meeting Centre in Wales.
Now members of the Brecon Meeting Centre have come together to celebrate the centre’s success in supporting people who live with dementia and their carers.
Chief Officer Sam Bolam said: “Our meeting centres are based on the Dutch model which emerged out of the Netherlands around 25 years ago.
“The model supports people in adapting to the changes that living with dementia can bring. The centres are so successful because they have such an inclusive approach. The person living with dementia can come with their partner, helper, family member or friend. In this way, everyone receives support and information. We all have a role to play in helping people to live well with dementia and Dementia Meeting Centres are powerful proof of this approach. We have amazing members, volunteers and staff who all work together to make all of our meeting centres such special places.”
While the centres have a serious role to play, the way in which they carry out this role is always warm, inviting and fun. Many friendships have been created and members often comment that an afternoon at the centre is enough to set them up for the rest of the week.
Dementia Matters in Powys also run centre’s in Llandrindod Wells and Ystradgynlais. There is no need for a formal diagnosis of dementia for people to attend. For more information, please visit www.dementiamatterspowys.org.uk email [email protected] or call 01597 821166.