Dementia group works to save day centre

Plans to secure the future of the Newtown Day care Centre could be boosted thanks to the work of a local dementia group.

The Dementia Friendly Newtown group is working with a range of other groups and individuals in an attempt to save the centre from closure. Powys County Council agreed earlier this year to keep the centre open for the time being, but it remains part of the council's cost-saving plans in the medium term.

The dementia group is now looking to extend its opening to Saturdays to allow family, friends and those with dementia time to relax, meet professional staff and volunteers and others.

On Saturday, 13 May, Dementia Friendly Newtown will host a coffee morning at the centre in Park Street between 10am and 12.30pm to let people meet the group, professional staff and volunteers and to give their views on opening it every Saturday.

It also marks the start of Dementia Awareness Week.

"Now that DFN has made the centre its new home, we are asking people to come along and let us know how we may be able to support you, your family member or friend with dementia or loneliness on a Saturday," said Nigel Iskander, Chairman of DFN.

"As you know, the Park Street Day Centre has been identified a a possible casualty of the swinging financial cuts, but we at DFN are working with several partners to establish the centre as a hub to service the needs of people in Newtown and surrounding areas.

"This, our first initiative, is aimed at identifying the need for the centre to be open between 10am and 4pm one of two Saturdays a month in the first instance. The service will be run by experienced and professional staff and volunteers and offers a warm and friendly welcome for people of all ages and backgrounds."

More details can be obtained by emailing info@dementiafriendlynewtown.org.uk.

Photo: The Park Street Day Centre, Newtown