A LOCAL organisation is celebrating a milestone of supporting people living with dementia and their carers.
Cllr Di Evans and Cllr Paul Taylor from Burntwood Town Council and Susan Williams, chair of Burntwood Dementia Friendly Community, joined Magnolia Friends for an event to mark a year since the Burntwood Memory Cafe launched.
The group provides support and friendship for people with dementia. It meets at Burntwood Memorial Hall from 11am to 1pm on Thursdays.
A spokesperson said:
“The aim of our group is to encourage friendship and help to reduce the isolation often felt by people with memory loss. We hope our members feel they belong and find recognition and acceptance and that we are making a meaningful impact to the lives of those living with dementia in our community.
“Magnolia Friends is somewhere people can interact, laugh, cry, share concerns and talk openly about their problems without feeling embarrassed or misunderstood – no-one is there to judge them.
“As part of our mission, we strive to provide enriching experiences outside the cafe, such as trips to local attractions, community events and social outings which are proven to improve mental health and wellbeing for those living with dementia.
“The social side is probably the most important aspect of our sessions. It provides a chance to have a cuppa and chat with friends to enhance social inclusion, helping our members stay connected to their community.
“We also aim to ease the burden on caregivers, offering them respite and support through shared experiences.”
For more details about Magnolia Friends email welcome@magnoliafriends.org.uk.