A DEMENTIA care group in Solihull has celebrated its 10th anniversary.
Moments welcomed and their loved ones come together to mark the occassion.
The group were joined by the Mayor of Solihull Councillor Annette Mackenzie at a special meeting complete with music from Olton’s Amazing Pluckers ukulele band, puzzles, crafts and a slice of cake.
Elaine Jones, who runs the group, said: “Our aim is to stimulate and encourage sparks of remembrance and recognition, through interaction, perseverance and patience within a fun and relaxed atmosphere and to give the carers much needed time for themselves which we feel is most important.”
In 2015 the then minister of Solihull United Reformed Church, Mark Fisher, was inspired to form a dementia group.
At the time he asked if there were any volunteers who would be interested in helping to achieve his vision and seven people volunteered, all from the Church or with a connection to a Church and a preliminary meeting was set up with the aim of giving carers two hours of respite each week and do something for themselves.
On the September 7 the first meeting Moments Dementia Group was held and welcomed three members.
Ten years on, there are 13 volunteers and 16 members regularly attending, meeting every Monday.
Elaine said: “Over the period of time, we have had over 60 members taking advantage of our services.
“Our activities have included jigsaws, play your cards right, BBQ, flower arranging, painting, craft work, games, colouring, themed sessions and plenty more. We have brought several people in to entertain us, bringing in sheep, Ukulele band, a Ukrainian singer, choirs, an alpaca, therapy dog and many more.”
