Royal Voluntary Service offers support for people in Banbury living with dementia

Royal Voluntary Service has launched a new dementia support group at its Cornhill Community Centre in Banbury every Thursday from 10:30am-12:30pm. The group provides a safe and supportive environment for people living with dementia, their carers and families.

The trained volunteers and staff at the Remember Me Cafe deliver creative and innovative activities that help stimulate memory and recall for those living with dementia, as well as a place where carers can access support and break down the barriers to isolation. Cognitively stimulating activates at the group include quizzes, reminiscence games, indoor sports, singing and music, gentle exercise, art and crafts. 

Sarah Bray, Health and Community Operations Manager at Royal Voluntary Service, said: "We have only just set up this group and is thoroughly enjoyed by those who have joined us. The feedback is only positive. We are committed to delivering a person-centered service for our members and strive to make the groups a fun and supportive place to be."

A carer who attends the group alongside her partner, who lives with dementia, said: "Both my partner and I attend one of the groups and thoroughly enjoy the activities. It is a lovely environment for people living with dementia and carers alike. As a carer I benefit from the groups as I am able to get support from my peers and if I need support or advice the team are always there to help. We look forward to attending and always leave with a smile on our face."

The Banbury group is now offering places for people at any stage of their dementia diagnosis, for the small fee of £7.50 per session. Carers are welcome free of charge.

Those who would like to join the group or discuss the service in more detail, please contact the Royal Voluntary Service team on 01295 264214 or email [email protected].

To find out more about Royal Voluntary Service in Oxfordshire visit royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.