Opening of new base
Support for those with dementia
Alzheimer Scotland this week officially opened their newly- refurbished Lanarkshire Dementia Resource Centre.
The centre at Dalziel Street in Motherwell will serve as a community hub to support people living with dementia and their carers and families across the region.
North Lanarkshire Council Provost Jean Jones was there to do the honours alongside Alzheimer Scotland chief executive Henry Simmons as well as staff, volunteers and supporters.
Provost Jones said: “Dementia is a lifechanging condition and can be very difficult to take in and adapt to for the person experiencing the symptoms, as well as their families and friends.
“This new facility will provide people with the help and support to adjust and cope with their new challenges, as well as helping them feel included in their community, so they can continue to live a full, rewarding life.
“With this being Dementia Awareness Week, it is even more fitting that the new centre opens in Motherwell today.
“The centre offers a lively and relaxed environment to provide much-appreciated support and advice, as well as a range of stimulating activities for everyone to enjoy.
“The service provision here is greatly appreciated and will undoubtedly have an impact on people’s lives.”
The new resource centre brings dementia to the high street by providing a stimulating and sociable environment for people living with dementia and their families to access information, advice and support locally.
“Plans are underway to provide a regular dementia cafe group in the future, as well as a variety of community activities including singing classes, craft making, walking and language workshops.
Mr Simmons said: “We believe that nobody should have to face dementia alone and that anyone living with the illness should be able to find help quickly and easily.
“The opening of our refurbished Lanarkshire Dementia Resource Centre in Motherwell represents a new chapter in our support for people living with dementia and their families locally.
“As well as providing a welcoming space, the community hub provides direct access to information, advice and practical support for people living with dementia, including access to local groups and peer support.
“Alzheimer Scotland would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who has worked towards today’s opening – the generosity of our supporters is what makes our vital work across the country possible.”
Harry Tyrie ( 64) from Motherwell, who is living with dementia, said: “The resource centre has been very useful by helping me to get out and about, linking me in with interest and support groups including the Green Hands project with local school children, as well as giving me the chance to meet lots of new people. I’d encourage anyone to come along to the new Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Resource Centre, not only does it look great but there’s going to be something which will interest you.”