Dementia support group win an award
ATeAM dedicated to providing support to those diagnosed with early onset dementia has picked up an award for its work.
The Stockport Young Onset Dementia Team, which is part of Pennine Care NhS Foundation Trust, collected one of the Trust’s Principles of Care Awards for its tailored care packages and compassionate care offered to patients and their families.
The team was highly commended, winning an award under the mental health category and also finishing overall runnerup out of the eight services receiving awards.
Traditionally dementia services cater for older people, but those with young onset dementia have very different needs.
For example, they might still be in employment, or may be financially responsible for young families or mortgages.
Because of this, a new service was formed by dedicated staff with a special interest and skill set in working with people with young onset dementia.
This includes input from a consultant psychiatrist, neuropsychologist, nurse, social worker, social inclusion support worker and an occupational therapist.
As part of their support, they offer a range of social inclusion activities such as walking, swimming and group sessions at their own private allotment.
The team also offers one-to-one activities, such as visits to art galleries and art classes, and a monthly drop-in session called YODeL (Young Onset Dementia enjoying Life).
Ruth Chaplin, Stockport Young Onset Dementia team manager and occupational therapist, said: “When someone is first diagnosed with young onset dementia it can be a time of huge distress and change for people and their families.
“Our team is made up of people with a real passion for caring for younger people with dementia, so we can offer specialist, individualised care to meet each unique situation.
“Through our support and activities, we aim to help people to live well and remain as independent as possible.”
The team received their award at Pennine Care’s annual general meeting at Lancashire County Cricket Club month.
A short video about the good work of the service was screened for the first time at the ceremony, which can be viewed on Pennine Care’s YouTube channel. late last