After the unfortunate closure of the dementia club previously run by Andover Mind due to funding cuts, a new initiative has been launched to ensure the continued support for those living with dementia in Andover.
The newly established Dementia and Wellbeing Club of Andover has now taken over where the previous club left off, providing a much-needed space for members of the community to come together.
The original club, which had been a cornerstone for those affected by dementia, saw its final meeting on the 8th of August. This closure was met with deep disappointment from attendees, many of whom relied on the club for social interaction and support. The decision to close came after Andover Mind, the charity that managed the club, lost council funding, leaving the future of the group in doubt.
In response to this, a local resident Clive Elliman, who had regularly attended the meetings as a carer, stepped forward to ensure the club’s continuation. Witnessing the distress caused by the closure, they decided to take action, pledging to keep the group alive. Following an appeal on social media, new premises were secured, and a new chapter for the club began.
The club, now known as the Andover Dementia and Wellbeing Club, has found a new home in the A.C.E. building on Bridge Street. Thanks to the generosity of A.C.E., the club will meet on the second Thursday of every month from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The new location not only provides a welcoming space but also offers free refreshments, with volunteers kindly baking cakes for attendees.
The organisers are now actively seeking new members to join the club, as well as entertainers who can offer an hour or so of their time to bring joy to the group. The club is open to everyone, aiming to create a warm and supportive environment for those affected by dementia and their carers.
The Andover Dementia and Wellbeing Club represents a vital lifeline for many in the community, ensuring that those living with dementia and their families have a place to gather, share experiences, and find comfort in the company of others. The organisers hope that this new beginning will allow the club to flourish and continue providing support to those who need it most.
