A new support service for people living with dementia or caring for somebody with dementia has opened at Waterside Farm Leisure Centre on Canvey Island, Essex.

The free drop-in service will run once a month and will be operated by the Dementia Community Support Team.

Lin Taylor, dementia navigator, explains: “The new dementia hub will provide an opportunity for people living with dementia and their carers to access a safe, therapeutic community space, which promotes activity and wellbeing.

“It provides an opportunity to seek direct in-person support and advice from me, the local dementia navigator.

“This includes support with information, future planning, and referrals to other services and activities.”

There is also support and advice available from the Sport for Confidence occupational therapist focused on supporting individuals to participate in meaningful occupation/activity to support health and wellbeing. 

And occupational therapists will be on hand to enable participation in activities that drive positive occupational outcomes. 

The new dementia hub will provide an opportunity for people living with dementia and their carers to access a safe, therapeutic community space, which promotes activity and wellbeing

In addition to advice and support, visitors to the walk-in hub will also have the opportunity to see the Sport For Confidence Boccia session.

Lucy Goldup, occupational therapist at Sport For Confidence, said: “People living with a long-term health condition, such as dementia, are half as likely to be physically active as the rest of the population.

“This means, so many people are missing out on the many social, physical, and mental benefits that activity and sport has to offer.

“Our Boccia sessions welcome everyone and are tailored to the needs of each participant to create a fun, meaningful experience for all.

“We hope that if we can encourage people to see the Boccia session, as part of the walk-in dementia hub, they might be interested in some of the many other activities provided by Sport For Confidence at Waterside Farm and other leisure centres across the county.”

Shane Williams, leisure centre and community services manager based at Castle Point Leisure Centre, added: “It is fantastic that our leisure centre is hosting this new community service.

“Not everyone feels at ease in a clinical environment, so offering this service in the leisure centre will, hopefully, break down barriers and improve accessibility, helping ensure support reaches those who most need it.”