Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Service Launches Medway’s First Memory Café – A Hub of Hope and Connection

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Service (ADSS) is proud to unveil an extraordinary new initiative in Medway: its first Memory Café. Launching in Strood, this vibrant community space is set to be a lifeline for individuals living with dementia, their families, and carers. With its doors opening at the Strood & Frindsbury Working Men’s Club, the Memory Café will be a place where joy, understanding, and support come together to create lasting impact.

The Memory Café is more than a gathering place; it’s a cornerstone for fostering connections and empowering those affected by dementia. By providing an inclusive and nurturing environment, ADSS is making strides toward building a dementia-friendly community in Medway. “In some towns across Medway there were groups that have been set up and largely being run by volunteers and in other towns such as where we are today, there was little to no support. We set ourselves the mission of helping on both fronts,” said Katie Antill, CEO of ADSS. “I would also like to pay particular thanks to Peter Rhodes and Colin Barden from East Kent Freemasons as the kind representatives of the Masonic Charitable Foundation who have kindly given us a generous grant over two years to fund the services. We are also indebted to the Richard Watts Foundation who have given us a specific grant to help us get the services up and running in Rochester, Strood and surrounding areas”.

A Light in the Journey of Dementia

Dementia affects nearly 900,000 people across the UK, the memory café is a growing need in Medway as the number of people living with dementia in Medway is on the rise with more than 3000 people impacted. Making initiatives like the Memory Café more important than ever. The café aims to be a lifeline for individuals and families navigating the complexities of dementia, providing them with the tools, companionship, and confidence to thrive. Cllr Douglas Hamandishe, Deputy Mayor of Medway attended the event was touched by the collaborative efforts of ADSS and stated “these groups are absolutely important, and we need to do more to raise awareness of these groups and where they exist so people can engage with them. They are applying collaborative intervention where people who have dementia can link in with people that can support them”.

-ENDS- 

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Services’ mission is to empower the lives of those impacted by dementia in Kent and Medway. They offer specialist knowledge, vital support, and tailored care to help the people they support and, in their care, reclaim control of their lives, remain active in their families and communities, and manage their disorders effectively. Their services are designed to manage symptoms effectively and improve overall well-being, ensuring everyone can live well with dementia.

Notes to Editor 

• High-resolution photos from the launch event will be available upon request.
• Interview opportunities with representatives from ADSS can be arranged.
• Prevalence in the Local Area: Approximately 3,018 individuals in the Dartford, Gravesham, and Swanley regions, and over 23,000 across Kent, are living with dementia.
• Support Services: Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Services, a registered charity established in 1991, provides essential support to those affected by dementia.
• Understanding Dementia: Dementia encompasses a range of symptoms, including memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving, or language. It represents a broad term rather than a specific disease.
• Types of Dementia: Alzheimer’s Disease and Vascular Dementia are the most prevalent forms in the UK, though there are over 100 different types identified.
• Age and Dementia: While commonly diagnosed in individuals over 65, dementia can also affect younger people, known as Young Onset Dementia.
• Living with Dementia: With appropriate care and support, individuals with dementia can lead fulfilling lives and remain active contributors to their families and communities.

For more information:

Cathy Assoba

Fundraising & Communications Manager

cathy.assoba@alz-dem.org

01474 533990