Did you know that there are increasing numbers of people in the UK living with memory loss? Or perhaps you know someone in this situation? It can be very isolating, stressful and challenging for those with the condition, carers and families. We need your support to raise money for a Memory Cafe and we want this resource to be accessible, inclusive, supportive, empowering and free at the point of access. Can you help us?

So what are Memory Cafes? These are social spaces that provide a safe, relaxing, stimulating, friendly environment for people living with memory loss and their carers. Karen and I visited some that were aleady established in North Somerset: all a car/bus/taxi journey away from our village. So we were inspired to set up one here in Long Ashton where we know that 5% of the over 65's have a diagnosis of dementia.

What are our plans? Our Memory Cafe will be held monthly in our village community centre which already has a cafe set up Long Ashton Cafe. We will offer our guests tea and cakes in a relaxing space. Our volunteers will help individuals settle in and encourage friendship and peer support. We will have information about memory loss/dementia available, bring in occasional speakers to talk about important things such as how to make your home safe or set up power of attorney and engage our guests in activities including music which those with memory loss enjoy. Our cafe is also fortunate enough to have the benefit of access to reiki and massage therapists.

Why do we need your help? Although costs are not excessive, we need funds to cover basic essentails such as rent for the venue, refreshments for our guests, buying in some activities/games and storage containers for these. We would also like to offer travel expenses to outside speakers. If you would like to help a small donation would go a long way to make this venture take off.