Christmas funds appeal

With dementia numbers on the rise, a West Sussex-based charity, currently the only one of its kind in the country, is appealing for support in helping to expand its vital services and support groups for the carers of people living with dementia.

As an independent charity, Sage House relies on the generosity of the public to provide life changing services.

These include emotional, social, legal and financial advice, help to navigate the complex health and social care system, respite care, dementia friendly hairdressing, assisted bathing, wellbeing activities, dementia supporter training and courses for carers all under one roof.

The funding has never been more desperately needed, especially in light of recent research which found one in two of us will be affected by dementia in our lifetime, either by caring for someone who has the condition, being diagnosed with dementia, or both (Alzheimers Research).

Today it is estimated there are currently 944,000 people living with dementia in the UK. This number is predicted to grow to 1.6 million by 2040 and one in three of us will be diagnosed with the condition.

John Stone, from Littlehampton, is sole carer of his wife Jean of 60 years. He said: “Before Sage House I felt so lonely, really lonely.

"I don’t know what my life would be without it – I honestly mean that. I can’t recommend Sage House enough when I talk to people. It is a family. We just feel part of the family.”

Sally Tabbner, Dementia Support CEO, said: “By doubling all donations, we can get even closer to raising £100,000 to help more people like John and Jean benefit from our essential dementia support services.

"Your donation makes it possible for Sage House to deliver essential personalised services to people living with dementia, their loved ones and their carers throughout their whole dementia journey.”

To gift please visit: www. dementiasupport.org.uk/ christmas-appeal or, donations can be accepted by post or in person at Sage House.