Funding boost for development of Dunblane dementia initiative

FAMILIES living with dementia in Dunblane can benefit from a programme of community activities thanks to a funding boost.

From Stirling News website

The Dunblane Development Trust has been given £20,000 from the Life Changes Trust. It will work alongside a range of other organisations and businesses as part of the Dementia Friendly Dunblane Initiative. The money will help to develop the services and activities that have already been established, along with creating new ones based on what people with dementia say would be most meaningful to them. This will include the continued expansion of dementia friendly activities such as inter-generational engagement with local schools, music memory activities with charity Playlist for Life, encouraging local businesses to become dementia friendly and developing Dunblane as a dementia friendly community.

Barbara Allan, chairperson of Dunblane Development Trust, said: “We are very excited to receive this grant which will allow us to continue our work with the range of local organisations who have already committed to being part of Dementia Friendly Dunblane.   "This will allow us to reach more people living with dementia and their families and make a real difference to their lives.” Anna Buchanan, director of the Life Changes Trust dementia programme, said: “This project is aiming to be truly community based and community led.  "The Dunblane Development Trust are encouraging everyone in the local area to get involved in making the community one which is not only safe for people with dementia, but inclusive, empowering and stimulating.  "The aim of this funding is to bring awareness about dementia across Dunblane and give people with dementia and carers opportunities that help them thrive rather than just survive.”

The project will also support and develop the Braeport Memory Cafe, working hand in hand with local volunteers and businesses to reach even more families affected by dementia. The café will be developed in consultation with people with dementia and their carers, so that the programme of events reflects their wishes and interests, including special and seasonal events. Dunblane Development Trust will also work with residents of the local residential home to provide opportunities to join in community activities, such as meeting friends at the memory cafe, attending lunch club at the Dunblane Centre, taking part in outdoor activities or attending church. Another phase of the project will focus on creating dementia friendly sports facilities such as tennis, golf and bowling clubs, and community groups such as Church Guilds and the Dunblane Centre Senior Citizens Club.

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