Welcome Message from our CEO, Sally

Welcome to our April Newsletter – and thanks for reading it!

March was another busy month with staff running a Carer Training course, trialling a Male Carers’ Group, the trip to the Lowry, as well as the usual groups and carer visits.

Our Fundraising Manager, Imogen, is busy setting up events for later this year and she and Sally are working harder than ever to secure more grants to keep all our services running. We’ve got exciting plans for Dementia Action Week (18- 25 May) so do keep an eye on our website, Facebook and Instagram pages for details.  We want to raise awareness of the achievements of our members with dementia but also campaign for better funding for dementia services.

Unfortunately, because of the difficult funding climate and inflation, we’re having to raise the prices of our Friendship & Activity groups and individual services a little from May 1st.  Please look out for an e-mail from us or a letter in the post about this.

On a cheerier note, we’ve been shortlisted as a finalist in the UK Dementia Care Awards 2026 for our services to carers.  These awards aren’t as prestigious as BAFTAs or Oscars – but we’re still chuffed  that our nomination was thought to be strong.  We’ll let you know how the interview and final judging goes…..

And you can’t help but feel hopeful and a little cheerful if you see the buds on the trees bursting and the green leaves opening out.  Even when humans are behaving badly, nature still gives us many lovely surprises, don’t you think!

Our April Highlights:

Grace and Amtul - Together At Home Service

Male carers bonding over a pint

• Together At Home
  Social Work student, Grace, has struck up a lovely relationship with one of our older ladies, called Amtul, even though they don’t share a common language This relationship encourages all of us to realise that, if we slow down, listen and watch carefully, and take turns to lead and follow the activity, giving non-verbal encouragement, we can enjoy meaningful moments and shared experiences Grace said:  “Even simple activities become meaningful when they are done with focus, patience and genuine engagement.”

• Male Carers Evening
  We had our third Male Carers Social Event. Two staff members met-up with 5 male carers at the end of the March in Chorlton cum-Hardy. These male carers events provide the space for them to gain advice, share experiences and to talk about their situation with others that understand. It also allows them to be part of a community of male carers, and offers a space to have a joke and laugh so they can forget about their caring responsibilities for a little while.

  Barrie E: I arrived to find a group of ‘partners’ where straight away the feeling of camaraderie was so natural. To broach many experiences, we had when young(er) brought laughter & relief to be able to allay our great loss by degree. I look forward to the next soiree.

  
  Carers Training

  Jo and Paula ran a 4 week online carers training throughout March with a core of 8 carers attending each week. 

  The feedback was good, all the carers enjoyed it and even though everyone's situation was unique to them, they all learned something new to help them with their caring journey.

• Eric & Ernie

  Paula & Mike accompanied a group of 17 carers and their loved ones to the Lowry theatre for a dementia friendly lunchtime showing of the show Eric and Ernie last week. 

   

  Not only was it a fabulous show but the Lowry theatre staff and volunteers went above and beyond to make sure the theatre and the show was accessible to all. 

   There was lots of laughter and everyone enjoyed their outing. 

• Cognitive Stimulation Therapy

  Anne & Dan Dan recently attended a day’s training workshop on Cognitive Stimulation Therapy – this is a scientifically based framework for delivering stimulating activities for people living with dementia in a fun and inclusive way. They met some other healthcare professionals, carers, and former carers, and were all challenged to join in some role play to give them all flavour of the techniques! Anne & Dan look forward to practising them for real with their lovely members in our Friendship and Activity Groups.
  

Great Manchester Run

Runners at last year’s Great Manchester Run

Can you help us fill our final places? 💙

 We’ve got 25 places left for the 10K at the Great Manchester Run on 31st May and we’d love you to be part of Team TDS.

You don’t have to be a runner. Lots of our team walk or roll it together, and it’s always such a lovely, supportive atmosphere on the day.

We’ve already paid for these places as a small charity, so it’s really important we fill them and make the most of the chance to raise money for local families affected by dementia.

And if you’re feeling extra ambitious… we have one place left in the half-marathon too – first come, first served!

If you can’t take part yourself, it would mean a lot if you could share this with friends, family, colleagues or your workplace. That kind of support really helps us.

Debate About Diet

Many of us think about how we can reduce the likelihood of developing dementia or how to delay it. At one of our groups there was also discussion about whether we should give our members with dementia biscuits to eat.

So what does the science say?

A healthy, balanced diet—particularly the Mediterranean diet—can significantly reduce the risk of dementia by supporting brain health and lowering inflammation. Key dietary approaches include eating leafy greens, berries, fish, and nuts, while minimizing processed foods, red meat, and added sugars, according to the National Institute on Ageing. 

Physical health factors that reduce risk or delay dementia

• Risk Factors: Diets high in saturated fat, sugar, and salt can lead to high cholesterol and blood pressure, increasing vascular dementia risk.

• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight prevents type 2 diabetes, which is linked to vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s.

So, should we provide biscuits for people with dementia to eat? Or should we give fruit or vegetable sticks etc?

Some people with dementia will no longer eat a balanced meal and may not eat much at all. Sometimes our priority is to get them to have more calories so tempting them with any snacks or drinks that they like is the priority. And we need to make those foods attractive and easy to reach. It’s great to offer healthy options and to eat those foods with pleasure yourself – so that they might copy. So, whilst we should all try to eat and drink more healthily, the priority to get the person with dementia to eat and drink enough each day probably wins.

Eli Lilly Appeal About Dementia Drugs

A drug company has successfully challenged a decision that blocked its Alzheimer's treatment from being available on the NHS.

Eli Lilly, the maker of a drug called Donanemab, appealed against a ruling by NICE (the body that decides which treatments the NHS should pay for). NICE had originally decided not to recommend the drug, but has now been forced to take another look.

Donanemab is designed for people in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease — those with mild memory and thinking problems — and works by targeting a protein in the brain linked to the condition. It's intended for a specific group of patients based on their genetic profile.

As a result of the appeal being upheld, a NICE committee will meet again to reconsider two things: the cost of giving the drug by drip (infusion) in NHS settings, and longer-term data on how well it works. The drug company said that NICE hadn’t considered the full cost of NOT giving the drug – the cost of families caring for the person with Alzheimer’s

Chris Stokes, Eli Lilly's UK and Northern Europe head, called it "a big moment in the battle against Alzheimer's disease" and urged NICE to be flexible in how it weighs up the evidence, so that eligible patients can access the treatment on the NHS "as quickly as possible."

Dates for Your Diary: Upcoming TDS Events

Dementia Action Week 18 - 25 May 

Keep an eye on our website and social media as we unveil an exciting programme of activities.

Please click here to book your tickets

Derbyshire 3 Peaks Challenge

TDS have secured a guide to take intrepid fundraising walkers across the Derbyshire 3 peaks on 8 August. Please save the date more details will be given out soon. email admin@togetherdmentiasupport.org to register your interest.

Memorial Walk

TDS Choir

We will be meeting next on 11 April at our new venue St Edmonds Church Hall, Alexandra Road, M16 8EZ please email anne@togetherdementiasupport.org if you’d like to join us we are always happy to welcome new members.

What we’ve been Reading, Watching and Listening to:

Just Checking Monitoring Technology

A simple, internet-based system that uses sensors around the home to allow professionals to observe people’s movements, to help assess their health and wellbeing. Lots of carers say to us that they don’t know if their loved is having a shower or not, this technology can report back if something like the shower is being used. There are no cameras or microphones. An assessment with social services is required.

Click here to see the brochure

One of our staff came across these library books for young children, about dementia

They all portray loving relationships between a grandparent developing dementia and the child. These books could be a good way to help a child understand what ‘ dementia’ means and to encourage them to express their feelings about it.

Hello {{ first name | reader }}

In Augusts issue

• Welcome Message from Sally

• A Call To Action

• Dementia Friendly Environments – Beth

• Moving Your Relative Into A Care Home: My Story - …

• Join us! Carer & Members Trip To Tatton Park

• Carers Spa Afternoon: Book your spot

• Save the Date: The Together Trail

• Together Dementia Support Legal Clinic

• Radio fame for Amy & Allan

• Recent Group Trips

Welcome Message from Sally

July has been a good month for us at TDS as our members have enjoyed trips out to Dunham Massey, the Lowry, and for a pub lunch. Our carers have had some very helpful meetings – about hospital care, moving & handling, and a chilled evening for bereaved carers.  We’ve been fortunate to recruit two fabulous new Dementia Support Co-ordinators, Laura and Dan.

Sally Ferris, CEO

Laura has invaluable lived experience as her Mum has had dementia for a number of years.  Dan is well-known to those of you at the Wythenshawe F&A Group as he has been Lead Volunteer there.  He’s excited to step into a staff role and has lots of ideas and energy to bring to our services for our members with dementia.

We’ve been fortunate to receive some small grants, specifically to provide breaks for carers. So, during the last week of August, we’ll be offering FREE spa sessions for carers and a FREE minibus trip to Tatton Park, for carers who’d like a trip with their loved one.  The Pyaari Yaadein group have decided that they want to go to Blackpool in the minibuses so those carers will have a free trip there earlier in August.

We really hope the sun shines on you all!

 We’ve got lots of planning to do for September as we’ll be running Carer Training sessions, starting a new monthly Dementia Café for central Manchester, starting a Music Café in Chorlton, and running a Volunteers’ Social.

Our staff are looking forward to moving back to a new office space in the Kath Locke Centre so we should be able to restart the evening massage sessions and even meet up with you in the fancy new Café that will open here on 6 September!

 We really want this newsletter to include your stories and advice.  You’ll see a great article written by carer, Alex Garcia.  If  YOU can put pen to paper and send us an article, we’ll give you a £10 supermarket voucher as a “thankyou”.

 That’s all from me for now.  I’ve got a house move and family wedding to get ready for in the next 2 weeks!

Sally, CEO

A Call To Action

You gave us lots of feedback in our Annual Survey in January. Not surprisingly, you would like more of all services – and more of services from other providers. 

It remains as difficult as ever for us to grow our services because there is no additional money out there. So we need to think of any ways that we can help to meet your needs and aspirations differently.

We think that the Carers WhatsApp group is a fabulous success – partly because of our star volunteer, Margaret Booth, who is attentive and always willing to answer your queries, but also because YOU all have a wealth of knowledge that you generously share. And the Carers WhatsApp group costs very little to run - mostly just staff time as we keep an eye on it and take some queries offline, following up with a phone call to a carer in need.

We’d like to talk to your more about your feedback and explore ideas you have about meeting the increasing need with our budget.

Dementia Friendly Environments – Beth

Last week I attended a webinar on dementia friendly spaces, here are some of their top tips:

1. Busy patterns on carpets and wallpapers can often look like they’re moving.

2.  Black mats or rugs can look like holes in the floor.

3. Shiny flooring can look wet and slippery.

4.  Mirrors can sometimes be unnerving as the person may not be able to recognise themselves anymore.

5. Where possible, try not to move things around too much in the home so that it remains familiar.

6. Natural light can help regulate circadian rhythms (our inbuilt body clock that makes us alert, awake and sleepy). Ensure that curtains are open and lights switched on.

7. Use contrasting colours to help people pick out objects. For example, doors should be different colour to the walls, otherwise people can’t always tell where the door is. The same can help with contrasting coloured toilet seats.

8. Have large faced clocks and calendars to help orientate people.

These things can all help to ease anxiety for people living with dementia.

Busy patterns on carpets

Unnatural lighting

Volunteers Needed: Do You Know Anyone?

Mary, our Volunteer Co-ordinator, is on a mission to recruit more Manchester residents as volunteers. We are fortunate to attract a lot of young people from sixth form colleges, who benefit from the work experience of volunteering with us, but we are keen to attract more people who can volunteer for longer, and who are available during the Summer months.

So, do you have any friends, neighbours, or part-time work colleagues who could spare 3 hours per week to be part of our volunteering community?

Perhaps you could send them this link to our Volunteering Film. It shows the many benefits that different people gain from volunteering – improved wellbeing, sense of purpose, confidence, work skills, joy!

We would love to hear from anyone who would consider the following roles:

• Friendship & Activity Group Volunteer

• Volunteer Driver (own vehicle)

• Minibus Escort Volunteer

• Together At Home Volunteer

• Music Café Volunteer

• Event/fundraising Volunteer

• Marketing/comms Volunteer

We’ve got a fun volunteers’ social planned for September - if anyone applies before then, that would be a great opportunity to meet some existing volunteers, the TDS team and to find out more. You can pass on Mary’s contact details, or apply online via our website:

📧 volunteers@togetherdementiasupport.org
📞 0161 226 7186

Moving Your Relative Into A Care Home: My Story - Alex Garcia

My dad was diagnosed in 2023. I suspect the symptoms began during the COVID lockdown, likely due to isolation and living in a small flat. Before this, my dad was full of life—he enjoyed dancing and socialising—but COVID brought all of that to a halt. The isolation and social distancing measures led to him becoming depressed and anxious.

Once restrictions lifted, I worked with Together dementia and social services to arrange day clubs tailored to support his social life and manage the progression of his condition. This made a huge difference to his mood, and even now, it’s something he talks about fondly.

Raoul Contemplating His New Home

Unfortunately, because of his vulnerability, his safety became a bigger concern. He needed more stimulation and supervision around the clock, not just for a few hours a day. His wandering worsened, and his search for company led to long walks where he sometimes got lost or encountered unsavoury characters. This caused a lot of stress for our family. I constantly monitored him through cameras in his home and called him frequently to make sure he didn’t miss the bus to the day club or his carers. I also used a tracker to keep tabs on his whereabouts.

It became overwhelming, especially as these wandering episodes started happening at night. He was no longer able to find his way back to his flat. Despite putting a photo of him on the door, he would get lost and had to rely on neighbours for help—especially challenging because I live over 30 miles away and couldn't assist only through the camera or ring door bell. I was deeply worried about both his safety and mental health, as the day clubs no longer provided enough stimulation for his needs.

After careful consideration, we decided to move Dad into a care home for these reasons. At first, it was nerve-wracking to find the right home. I researched reviews, made sure there were gardens since Dad loves the outdoors, and ensured there were consistent activities to help him thrive. We finally found a suitable place.

Settling In

The adjustment period was tough—for both of us. I felt like I lost control over monitoring Dad, which was strange and made me feel helpless and nervous. Trusting someone else with his care was hard, especially since we’d been let down int he past by previous carers/care companies. Just when we had his care sorted after a long 2 year battle, we had to start over with new staff, new situation, new company, new routines. I also felt guilty, worrying if I had made the right choice, knowing Dad doesn’t like change.

There were struggles initially, and although it was frustrating, I understood that both Dad and the care staff needed time to adjust. The staff had to learn about Dad’s behaviour and routines to make things familiar for him and Dad needed to get used to new surroundings, new routine and unfamiliar faces. Several check-ins were required, but overall, I feel this was the best decision.

After over six weeks at the home, Dad doesn’t even realise he’s in a new environment. I believe bringing all his belongings from his flat to his room helped make it feel familiar. Now, he’s happy, constantly surrounded by people, and continues with his daily activities. When I visit, I can be his daughter again—not his carer—which is wonderful for both of us. We still do the same activities we always have; nothing has changed except our wellbeing has improved.

I’m not saying it’s been an easy journey. There are ongoing challenges that I’m working through with both the home and myself. But I truly believe we made the right decision, and I hope things continue to improve.

Join us! Carer & Members Trip To Tatton Park

On Wednesday 27th August, the lovely Jo and Dan will be running a Carer and Members trip to the glorious Tatton Park!

Take a tour around the stately home, stroll or sit in the beautiful gardens, or watch the children in the play area.

This trip is free for all TDS Carers, and minibus transport is provided - leaving at 11:30am and returning by 3:30pm. You can come independently, or with the person you care for

We have only 15 places available, so please get in touch to book your spot:
📧 admin@togetherdementiasupport.org
📞 0161 226 7186
🚗 Transport available

Tatton Park in all it’s glory!

Carers Spa Afternoon: Book your spot

We all deserve a bit of rest and relaxtion, so join us on Tuesday 26th August to relax at Shrigley Hall spa for an afternoon!

We’ll start off with a light lunch and then make use of their facilities - including indoor and outdoor pool, steam room, sauna and jacuzzi!

Please note: We only 11 spaces available so please book on ASAP.

To book your spot, please get in touch:
📧 admin@togetherdementiasupport.org
📞 0161 226 7186
🚗 Transport available

The Spa facilities!

Shrigley Hall

Save the Date: The Together Trail

We’re launching a brand-new community walk, The Together Trail, and we want you to join us:

📅 Saturday 13th September 🕕 11am 📍 Wythenshawe Park

Here’s what you need to know:

🎽 Target £100 sponsorship per participant
👕 Includes free t‑shirt and finishing medal
➿ Short, accessible route and walkers can repeat the loop for extra steps & extra fundraising fun if they'd like to
🎶 Entertainment, stalls, and community atmosphere

How You Can Help:

• Share the word! Invite your friends and family!

• Share our success stories and photos across social media

• Register for The Together Trail and set up your fundraising page

• Invite others to take part - more walkers, more awareness, more impact!

Thank you for being part of our Together Dementia Support family. Your support, energy, and commitment help us bring essential services to those affected by dementia in Manchester, and we couldn’t do it without you.

Together Dementia Support Legal Clinic

Do you need to sort your Will or Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)?

Our Legal Clinic is back this September at Together Dementia Support — in partnership with Private Client Solicitors.

✅ Friendly, expert advice
✅ Safe, relaxed setting
✅ Book ahead — spots fill fast!

It’s a really simple process - just compete a questionnaire before your appointment, attend the appointment and then sign for your Will or LPA at a second appointment.

📅 Perfect timing — after the summer holidays!
📞 Get in touch now to reserve your appointment 0161 226 7186

Radio fame for Amy & Allan

A few weeks ago a radio producer got in touch with us, asking if we could link them up with a local family who would be willing to talk about eating and dementia.

Amy, a TDS Carer, responded to our call-out and now they are the stars of The Food Chain: Eating well with dementia, aired on the BBC World Service! We’re sure you’ll agree that they tell their story brilliantly.

A huge well done and thanks to Amy and Allan. You can listen here:

Allan and Amy

Recent Group Trips

Our friendship and activity groups have enjoyed some lovely days out recently to The Lowry and Dunham Massey. It’s always great to be able to take our members out for the day to enjoy the open air during British Summer time.

PY Trip To Dunham

PY Members at Dunham

Hello {{ first name | reader }}

In July's issue

• Welcome Message from Sally

• Carers’ Week 2025

• Dave’s Legacy - Hospital Care - Meeting This Monda …

• The Carer’s Afternoon

• Carers’ Moving & Handling Session

• Carer’s Training

• Carer’s Spa Session

• Minibus Trip For Members living With Dementia & Th …

• 🌟 June Fundraising Highlights 

Welcome Message from Sally

It’s a 5-set match.  The men’s matches at Wimbledon can go on for hours and you wonder how they’ve got the stamina to keep on playing, especially when you believe one of them is very likely to lose.  Why not just throw in the towel! But sometimes the underdog upsets the expected storyline and their perseverance pays off.  Is this a metaphor for us, the TDS community?  Certainly those of you who are unpaid carers have to play a long match. And for charities like ours, and indeed for everyone who works in this field, we keep watching and waiting for the services that you all need and deserve.  Campaigners are pleased to see that dementia is at least referred to in the Government’s new 10 year NHS plan.  The idea of more neighbourhood wellbeing centres, where a range of health services will be easily available, sounds positive.  And we know that Manchester is planning its first Live Well Centre, to be located in Harpurhey.  Perhaps there will be a Dementia Hub there too. In the meantime, we’ve been cheered by some fabulous fundraising efforts by staff, volunteers, carers and other supporters.  One former carer, Vicky, is doing a Wing Walk (fixed to a small aeroplane!!!) For those of you who need a mini break from caring, do look out for the spa sessions that we’ll be advertising soon, the relaxation and creative writing session at Sale Waterside next Saturday, and the minibus trip out at the end of August – or just give us a ring at the office and one of the staff will take you out for a coffee or a walk.  Take care of yourselves everyone!

Sally Ferris, CEO

Sally, CEO

Together Dementia Support

Carers’ Week 2025

This annual week, focussing on the heroic work of unpaid carers and campaigning for a better deal, took place 9-15 June.

Cathy Cameron, who cares for her sister-in-law, wrote a number of letters to Manchester local councillors, asking for more support for carers and carers’ organisations such as TDS.  Each of them responded and said that they will be mindful of carers’ issues and giving support where they can.

The Carers Manchester Network (of which we are a member) put on some events for carers.  They were well attended and much appreciated.

Here’s what carer, Aureen, who attended three events, said: 

 Pampering… I just wanted to share how truly beautiful my time at the pampering was. The whole experience had such a gentle, calming atmosphere - there was a deep sense of peace that made it easy to relax and just be. It felt like stepping into a slower rhythm, one that allowed space for stillness, presence and quiet connection. then i had to come back to reality. MUSIC..... the drumming had a grounding, almost meditative quality - it created a rhythm that brought everyone together in such a natural and peaceful way. and when the guitar joined in, it added a lovely soothing layer that blended so beautifully with the drums. it was such a pleasure just to listen and be part of it. one of the most joyful parts for me was when we started putting words together and created a song as a group. there was something really magical in that process - playful, creative and full of heart. it brought such a warm sense of togetherness and i'll hold that memory close for a long time. The people who organised it all (pampering and drumming) truly created something special. it was clear how much care and intention went into everything and I’m so grateful for the space they made - a space to reconnect, to share and to simply enjoy being human among others. Thank you for such a joyful experience.

Dave’s Legacy - Hospital Care - Meeting This Monday

All are welcome to share experiences and learn about what is poor and good hospital practice.  Contact Beth to let her know if you’re coming or just turn up.

The Carer’s Afternoon

Taking place at Sale Waterside, Saturday 12 July – join TDS staff for a relaxing, therapeutic afternoon  looking at Jenny Harris’ exhibition (The Long Goodbye) and reflecting, creatively, on your caring relationship, the things to celebrate and the things that are difficult.  You’ll be surprised about what you might write and you’ll leave feeling brighter!  Sale Waterside is right next to the Sale tram stop but let us know if you need a lift.

Carers’ Moving & Handling Session

Carers moving & Handling takes place 9 July at Oaklands all welcome please book on as per poster.

Carer’s Training

Paula and Jo will be running a 4 -session training course for carers, probably starting in September.  This course will be face-face and a nice chance to get to know some other carers really well.  The sessions cover – a deep understanding of what dementia is and how it changes the individual; decisions to make and services available as dementia progresses; financial and legal issues: looking after yourself  and finding some joy.  If you’d like to attend the training, please get in touch with Paula: paula@togetherdementiasupport.org or ring the office

Carer’s Spa Session

Watch this space for details of the forthcoming FREE carer spa sessions at the Marriot Hotel in Worsley.  Thanks to some grant funding we hope to offer two sessions, enabling more carers to go.  Get in touch with Paula to indicate your interest

Minibus Trip For Members living With Dementia & Their Relative

7 We won’t be running any groups the week of the August Bank Holiday.  Sadly we don’t have the funds to put on a big coach trip but, instead, we will run a day trip that week, using our two minibuses.  It’s likely that we’ll go to the coast at Lytham St Anne’s or Blackpool.  More details will follow as soon as Jo has finalised the plan.

🌟 June Fundraising Highlights 

8 We’re delighted to share an exciting update from a very successful June! 

🏊 Great North Swim

Our swimmers made a splash and raised an incredible £2,934! A huge thank you to everyone who cheered them on, donated, or took part in this challenge!

🧗 Trafford Centre Abseil

Our courageous abseilers took to new heights, raising over £1,000. We’re so grateful to each person who conquered their fear as a member of Team TDS.

🎉 MC Construction 80s Fundraising Night

Our Senior Business Support Officer, Julie, and Service Delivery Manager, Claire, danced the night away alongside MC Construction’s team at their lively 80s-themed event. We’re thrilled to announce that 50% of the evening’s proceeds will be donated to Together Dementia Support, final figures to follow soon. 

🌳 Save the Date: The Together Trail

Saturday 13th September | 11 am | Wythenshawe Park

We’re launching a brand-new community walk, and we want you to join us! 

• 🎽 Target £100 sponsorship per participant

• 👕 Includes free t‑shirt and finishing medal

• ➿ Short, accessible route and walkers can repeat the loop for extra steps & extra fundraising fun if they'd like to

• 🎶 Entertainment, stalls, and community atmosphere

Registration will be LIVE VERY SOON on our website, but for now, please SAVE THE DATE and spread the word!

How You Can Help:

• Share our success stories and photos across social media

• Register soon for The Together Trail and set up your fundraising page

• Invite others to take part - more walkers, more awareness, more impact!

Thank you for being part of our Together Dementia Support family. Your support, energy, and commitment help us bring essential services to those affected by dementia in Manchester, and we couldn’t do it without you.

Hello {{ first name | reader }}

In June's issue

• Welcome Message from Sally

• Carers Week 2025: Caring About Equality

• Dementia Debate in Parliament

• Carers' Spa Session

Welcome Message from Sally

This week is Carers Week (9–15 June) - a time to stop and recognise the quiet strength and dedication of unpaid carers, especially those supporting someone living with dementia. Too often, their work is unseen and unsupported, even though it’s absolutely essential. At Together Dementia Support, we know just how much carers give. We see the emotional labour, the juggling of appointments, and the small acts of love that keep someone going. This newsletter shares some ways we’re celebrating carers this week, and how we’re continuing to push for better support, more funding, and real change. There’s also plenty to get involved in, from writing to your local councillor to watching our new volunteer video, or even taking on a fundraiser! We hope to see you at one of our Carers Week events.

Sally Ferris, CEO

Sally, CEO

Together Dementia Support

Carers Week 2025: Caring About Equality

Dementia Debate in Parliament

Make a Difference: Write to Your Councillor

During Dementia Action Week, carer, Cathy Cameron, not only completed the Great Manchester Run 10K with fellow supporters like Pauline Bowyer, but she also took the powerful step of writing to her local councillors, asking them to do more to support people living with dementia and the work of Together Dementia Support.

Shared Care in Care Homes: A Personal View

Volunteers Needed! Watch Our New Video

Hiring a Wheelchair: What You Need to Know

A big THANK YOU from your Volunteer Coordinator…

Hi, {{ first name | lovely volunteers }} This is a bit of a mini newsletter, to wish you a happy Volunteer’s Week! Volunteer’s Week is an annual campaign to recognise the contributions of volunteers up and down the UK…. ⭐ This past year, 14.2 million people in the UK formally volunteer at least once a month And not to brag, but I think we’ve probably got some of the best in the business. We’ve got over 100 active volunteers, who give us their time and skills every single week - helping us to make our little corner of the world a kinder place.

Mary, Volunteer Co-Ordinator

Because all of our services here at TDS are volunteer run, and have been since the beginning, it would be too easy to take your contributions for granted - to forget, or to downplay the incredible gifts of time, skill and energy that each of you shares with our members and each other.

Life is busy, and full of responsibilities and commitments and chaos. And yet, every single day at our groups and home visits, we see volunteers making time amidst it all to be there for others - to listen, learn, and support our members. And we also see volunteers loving it - the laughter and jokes, the crazy activities, and the friendships and relationships that form.

You all help us build the mismatched, welcoming and supportive community that is TDS. Kind of like a big patchwork quilt, where no two pieces are the same - different backgrounds, ages, shapes and sizes - and yet together, placed alongside our members and carers, you all make something wonderful and special. Something that gives you the warm glow of knowing you are a part of something good.

Thank you for all you do - all that we see, and all that we don’t. You are all extraordinary to us, and we continue to be so grateful to have you on our team ❤️

Email: volunteers@togetherdementiasupport.org

Phone: 07579831790

🎬✨Lights, Camera, Action: Launching our new volunteering film!✨🎬

Just in time for Volunteer’s Week, we’re really excited to launch our brand new volunteering film - featuring some of our lovely Levenshulme and Walk & Talk volunteers!

Watch it here, and let us know what you think:

This film was commissioned as part of a grant we’ve received from One Manchester - Manchester’s largest social housing provider - to try and promote volunteering, and it’s benefits more widely.

The beauty of volunteering is that it’s mutually beneficial - I don’t expect people to volunteer purely out of the goodness of their hearts (even though I believe you all have HUGE hearts). People want to volunteer because it’s good for us - it brings so much richness, diversity, and new experiences into our lives.

I think the film really captures this, and all there is to gain from volunteering, with TDS or elsewhere…the way it grows intergenerational friendships and relationships in your local community; the value it can bring to your life in terms of personal and professional growth; and the hugely positive impact it can have on our mental health, simply knowing we’re a part of something good.

We’re always trying to capture volunteer experiences and stories, so if you’d like to share yours - either written down or verbally - get in touch!

✨📢Tell your friends!📢✨

We’re always looking for new volunteers, but particularly over the summer period when so many of our existing student volunteers return home for the holidays.

We are especially in need of:

• Group volunteers for our Tuesday and Wednesday sessions over the summer

• Volunteer Drivers for Walk & Talk on a Wednesday morning - volunteers with access to their own vehicles, who would be happy to pick up/drop off members. There’s no cost to this - we cover everything!

If sitting in the sun, eating ice cream, doesn’t persuade your friends to sign up…then nothing will!

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of people you could share our volunteering opportunities with:

• Your neighbour - stick a leaflet through the door!

• Your friends - encourage your mates to get involved!

• Your husband/wife/partner - those who volunteer together, stay together…right?

• Your children (16+) who may or may not be lazing around the house needing something to do this summer

• Your colleagues!

• Your long lost lover - the perfect reason to get back in touch!

• Your milkman - leave a leaflet in an empty milk bottle

• Your favourite cashier at Tesco/ASDA/Sainsburys

You can find all the necessary information about all of our volunteering roles on our website here - so please send or share the link with someone you know! Or, feel free to pass on my contact details to anybody who would like to chat about how to get involved:

Email: volunteers@togetherdementiasupport.org

Phone: 07579831790

Hello {{first_name | reader}}

In May's issue:

• Hello {{first_name | reader}}

• Welcome message from Sally

• Dementia Action Week 2025 19 - 25th May

• Meet Imogen, our new Fundraising Manager!

• Coming up…

• Our Long Goodbye: Writing Workshop for Carers

• Dates for your diary!

Welcome message from Sally

Every year, the Alzheimer’s Society organises a Dementia Action Week. It’s a time to focus attention on all things dementia-related and particularly to campaign for action.  This year the Alzheimer’s Society’s focus is on early diagnosis and educating the public about the common symptoms.  It’s great that the AS do this awareness-raising work as it can be helpful if more people know that the changes they are seeing in their relative aren’t just “old age” but are part of a dementia illness.

Sally Ferris, CEO

However, I wonder whether some families delay getting a diagnosis for their relative because there is so little on offer by way of treatment or services, and because of the stigma around dementia.  If we had the complete range of high quality care and support services, then it might be worth getting a diagnosis….

That’s why we, at Together Dementia Support, want to draw people’s attention to the inequity of services for people affected by dementia compared with people affected by other illnesses , such as cancer.  We believe that there should be enough capacity for all carers to have close one-one support from a trained professional, that they should be able to easily access a break (and respite care for their loved one), and that people with dementia should have practical, emotional and social support to get the best out of their remaining years.  Not enough of this is widely available across the UK and those who hold the purse strings aren’t yet persuaded to allocate more for dementia. 

If you would like to send a letter to your Councillor or MP this Dementia Action Week, calling for more money to be allocated to dementia services, but would like help - let us know. We can help by sending you a template letter to complete.  Equally, if you write your own letter, please share it with us as it’s good to know how much of a campaign we can build.

In the meantime, we’ll be raising awareness on social media and running a couple of great events that we hope you’ll come to:

• Our special Dementia Café at the Amani Centre on Thursday 22 May is a chance to listen to other carers sharing things they’ve learned.

• Our Living Well with Dementia event will be a fun afternoon at Village 135 in Wythenshawe where carers and people with dementia can enjoy a range of activities, finishing with a disco!

We hope to see you at one of the events or at one of our groups! Read on to find out more information, including dates and times.

 Sally, CEO
Together Dementia Support

Dementia Action Week 2025
19 - 25th May

This Dementia Action Week, we challenge everyone to take action to better support people affected by dementia - by learning, spending time with them, and changing your attitude.

Have a look to see what we have going on:

Sunday 18^th May: The Great Manchester 10k
Come and support Team TDS! We have 30 runners, including Dennis Gibson, who lives with dementia, lacing up their shoes on the 19th including members, carers, staff and volunteers. Follow our social media to support from a distance, or contact Imogen (our new Fundraising Manager) to join our Cheer Point: imogen@togetherdementiasupport.org.

Dennis is ready to go!

Monday 19^th May: Fabulous Forgetful Friends meeting
You’re invited to come and join our activist group for a session - get to know our members, and learn more about what they get up to as they share their lived experiences of dementia, and push for positive change in Manchester.
🕙 11am - 1.30pm
📍 The Amani Centre, 144 Moss Lane East M16 7DG. 

Tuesday 20^th May: MFT Dementia Conference, Wythenshawe Hospital . 
We’ll be at the conference along with other organisations - TDS will have an information stalls, and some of our Carers and FFF members will be speaking! Our Together In Song Choir will be singing at lunchtime.

Thursday 22^nd May: Dementia Action Week Dementia Cafe
Learn from the experts at our Dementia Cafe - come enjoy an Afternoon Tea, and listen to our carers and people living with dementia speaking about what they’ve learned whilst navigating their dementia journey. 
🕙 1.30 - 3:30pm
📍 The Amani Centre, 144 Moss Lane East M16 7DG. 

Saturday 24^th May – Living Well with Dementia Event
Join our staff team for a fun afternoon of therapeutic activities and a dementia disco, both people with dementia and carers. Refreshments included!
🕙 2pm - 4:30pm
📍 Village 135, 3 Hollyhedge Court Road, Wythenshawe, M22 4ZP 

Meet Imogen, our new Fundraising Manager!

Hi everyone! I’m Imogen - your new Fundraising Manager here at Together Dementia Support. I’m really excited to join the team and work together to support people living with dementia and their loved ones across Manchester.

A little bit about me - I love hiking and Pilates to keep my mind and body balanced, and I’ll be putting my fitness to the test as I take on the Great Manchester Run 10K on 18th May! to raise money for TDS. We still have 3 places left if anyone would like to join me!

We’ve also got some more exciting fundraising events coming up:

Great North Swim in Lake Windemere: 14^th June

We have ten places (six one-mile and four half-mile swims) for this iconic cold water challenge and we'll include transport from Manchester to Windermere and back! All we ask is that you raise a minimum of £200 (of course, we'd love you to raise more!) so that we cover our costs and raise some vital funds for our members and their families.

Whether you're a cold water regular or a newbie, this challenge is going be epic!

Could this be you on the 14th June?

Palazzo Tower Abseil at the Trafford Centre: 27^th and 28^th June

Our intrepid abseilers will climb up the 170ft where they will be kitted up and trained. Then, one by one, they will step out into the unknown and become TDS fundraising heroes! We still have places so if you are courageous enough to brave the challenge head over to our website and register now.

Danielle at the Palazzo Tower last year with her amazing fundraising total

If you're up for a fun challenge to raise vital funds so that we can continue providing support to those living with dementia, I'd love to hear from you.

Drop me an email if you'd like a chat or have any fundraising ideas: imogen@togetherdementiasupport.org

Coming up…

Our Long Goodbye: Writing Workshop for Carers

Artists Jenny Harris and Lowri Evans are putting on a writing workshop for TDS carers and we hope some of you will Beth and Paula - and join in! Three TDS carers have already attended and found the experience both relaxing and rewarding. They didn’t know they had so many things that they wantd to express!

📅 Saturday 12^th July
🕙 1.30 - 3:30pm
📍 Sale Waterside, 1 Waterside, Sale, M33 7ZF
🚗 Transport available

In this workshop we will explore creating art about dementia. Ways you can do this and what impact it can have. Through conversation and creative writing, we will share experiences and spark new ideas whilst questioning:

• How do we artistically and ethically talk about Alzheimer’s

• How can art improve wellbeing?

• Can art help people experiencing dementia to feel seen and heard?

Our Long Goodbye is an exhibition of photos, films and texts that document one mother and daughter’s relationship – to each other and Alzheimer’s. It is touring June - December 2025.

About the workshop leaders

Jenny Harris is an experienced freelance drama practitioner in Manchester who works with groups of all ages and abilities using drama and storytelling to promote confidence, well-being, connection and inclusion. She is the lead artist on the ‘Care Aesthetics’ project led by Professor James Thompson at the University of Manchester.

Since 2014 she has led ‘Storybox’ sessions - a creative project for people living with a dementia and their carers and family. When her Mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s - her professional and personal words collided. This work is the outcome of that experience.

Lowri Evans is an artist based in Manchester, who makes intimate art projects in unusual places with complete strangers. Art is her way of saying ‘sometimes I feel like this, do you?’ She has 20 years’ experience of creating small and large scale participatory art projects in a variety of settings, from care homes to shopping centres, canals to roundabouts.

From 2010-2013 she developed and delivered Storybox sessions for people with dementia and their carers; in the moment, imaginative storytelling sessions. At the heart of her art projects is a deep empathy for others and otherness, a sensitive and subversive approach that reveals the extraordinary in the everyday.

Dates for your diary!

Thursday 15th May 🕙 11am - 1.30pm 📍 The Flying Horse, Wythenshawe A great opportunity to meet other carers, relax with friends and enjoy a delicious meal. Contact us to book a place: 📞 0161 226 7186  📧 beth@togetherdementia support.org

Thursday 22nd May 🕙 1.30 - 3:30pm 📍 The Amani Centre, 144 Moss Lane East M16 7DG Contact Paula for more information: 📧 paula@togetherdementia support.org

Saturday 24th May 🕙 2pm - 4:30pm 📍 Village 135, 3 Hollyhedge Court Road, Wythenshawe, M22 4ZP  All are welcome!

Wednesday 28th May 🕙 1:30 - 3:30pm 📍 St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Brownley Road, Wythenshawe, M22 0DW To book a massage, contact Beth: 📧 beth@togetherdementia support.org

Friday 30th May 🕙 11am - 1:30pm 📍 Crumpsall Methodist Church, Lansdowne Road, M8 5ST All welcome!

Monday 9th June 🕙 6 - 7pm 📍 The Amani Centre, 144 Moss Lane East M16 7DG Contact Beth to book a place: 📧 beth@togetherdementia support.org

Tuesday 10th June 🕙 5 - 8pm 📍 The Dandelion Community, corner of Oatlands Road and the Portway, Wythenshawe, M21 1AH/6AH Contact Paula for more information: 📧 paula@togetherdementia support.org

Wednesday 11th June 🕙 11am - 1:30pm 📍 Alexandra Park Contact Beth: 📧 beth@togetherdementia support.org

Thursday 12th June 🕙 11am - 1pm 📍 FC United, 310 Lightbowne Road, Moston, Manchester, M40 0FJ Join for a tour and lunch! Contact us to book a place: 📧 admin@togetherdementia support.org

Friday 13th June 🕙 10am - 2pm 📍 The Amani Centre, 144 Moss Lane East M16 7DG Contact Paula for more information: 📧 paula@togetherdementia support.org

Wednesday 25th June 🕙 1:30 - 3:30pm 📍 St Andrew’s Methodist Church, Brownley Road, Wythenshawe, M22 0DW To book a massage, contact Beth: 📧 beth@togetherdementia support.org

Friday 27th June 🕙 11am - 1:30pm 📍 Crumpsall Methodist Church, Lansdowne Road, M8 5ST All welcome!

Welcome message from Sally

‘What is this world if, full of care, we have no time to stop and stare…..’Are you familiar with that poem? Or is your relative? I discovered that it was a poem that many school children had to learn off by heart years ago. The basic idea is that it’s important that we take a moment here and there to look and notice the changes around us – that Spring is finally springing! I hope that lifts your spirits. Some of us will be celebrating Eid very soon and then others might be celebrating Easter – whether as a religious or cultural event.

Sally Ferris, CEO

We’re encouraged by successfully gaining a grant for a new Carer Support Co-ordinator.  We’re getting some great outcomes from our Together At Home and new Together Out & About projects. We plan to recruit and train up some new sessional workers to the Together Out & About and can then offer it to any families who can pay for this service.

Beth also has some lovely  carer events coming up.  See below for details.

We continue to be very grateful to our Carer Champions, two of whom have written below about their volunteering work for us.

And I hope you read Nithiah’s book review at the end of this newsletter which really sums up why we do what we do here at TDS.

Sally, CEO
Together Dementia Support

Extra Care facilities in Manchester - Beth

This month Beth has been to visit a couple, Winston and Gloria, who have recently moved into Oaklands Extra Care facility on Wilbraham road. Extra care facilities offer self-contained apartments for older people. It includes care and support services and staff are onsite 24/7. They also offer communal spaces and some have beauty salons and cafes within them too.

Winston and Gloria were living in their own flat which was up a steep flight of stairs, Winston had been coming regularly to our Moss Side group where he loved to play dominos and play his ukulele for the group. However, his mobility had been declining and he became too unsteady on his feet to attend and couldn’t manage the stairs leading up to their flat. Gloria realised it had reached a point where it was time to move and successfully applied for an apartment in Oaklands. They have settled in wonderfully and she admits it has changed their life for the better. Winston is now very sociable again as he can access the communal room via the lift. When Beth visited they were in the middle of a vibrant drum circle, Gloria explained they often have people come in to do exercise classes and have social coffee mornings twice a week too. Gloria explain that she feels so much safer in their new apartment, the bathroom is an adapted wet room, it’s peace of mind knowing there is always someone there and there are pull chords if help is needed.

There are other extra care facilities in Manchester, including Shore Green which has an accessible secure garden and Butler court in North Manchester.

In order to apply to move to one of these facilities you need to register with ‘Manchester Move’ and then you can refer yourselves through an application form to the schemes. If you would like any more info on extra care schemes, or on how to apply please do contact us.

TDS Eid Celebrations - Shabs

Shabs and Lord Mayor Cllr Yasmine Dar

Our Pyaari Yaadein group has been much smaller in number for the last few weeks because many of the members have been staying at home to fast and pray.  For those of us who aren’t Muslim, we’re impressed by the self-discipline of our Muslim friends. 

However, Ramadan is expected to come to an end on Sunday or Monday when the new moon is sighted.   

Timings for Ramadan fasting might be further disrupted by the one-hour jump in sunrise (as the clocks change) early on Sunday morning! 

On the morning of  Eid al-Fitr, many Muslims will attend prayers at their local

Islam follows a lunar calendar, Ramadan and Eid are part of this cycle. This year, the first day of Eid al-Fitr is expected to take place on Sunday, March 30, or Monday, March 31. This depends on the sighting of the moon.   

Islamic Relief states: "In many Muslim countries, the celebrations of Eid ul-Fitr can last for up to three days. These days are usually public holidays, in which families and friends gather and celebrate the end of a month of fasting." 

They add: "It’s a day of joy and celebration in having spent Ramadan in Allah’s pleasure, and for fulfilling our duty to Allah to abstain from food and drink during daylight hours. 

Last year, our PY members had a VIP guest at their Eid party, the Lord Mayor Cllr Yasmine Dar. 

This year, the owner of Archie’s (a very successful chain of diners), Amer Rafiq, has funded a restaurant meal for our members, their carers and our staff and PY volunteers.  What a treat!  (We’ll share photos in due course). 

Thanks to our staff member and all our PY volunteers for continuing to work and support our members through Ramadan.  Eid Mubarak to you all!

Carer Champions - Margaret & Norma

What are some of our Carer Champions Doing? Margaret talks about her telephone care support role:

Norma, one of our Carer Champions

Easter Closures

Dementia Disco - Claire

I know some of you know about the wonderful Dementia Discos -  these are run by a charity and are free-to-attend, regular discos for people with dementia, their carers, family and friends in the Stockport area on Saturdays when there often isn’t much to do in the dementia community.

We know that Carer Alex goes with her dad as it’s something uplifting. We also want to have some Discos for Carers and Members to look forward to in Manchester – so we are planning one in Wythenshawe and North Manchester for late Spring so people can keep dance and socialised their way into Summer!

Watch this space and this glitter ball!

Fundraising Events

Let’s put the ‘fun’ into fundraising! Our amazing fundraisers are working hard to raise money for TDS!

Local schools wish you a Hoppy Easter in the Great Big Bunny Hop 2025!

Our fabulous fundraising supporters will be hopping, running, walking, swimming and abseiling to raise vital funds for our essential dementia services - they deserve our support!

This year we have three amazing schools who will be taking part in our Great Big Bunny Hop 2025. They are Chorlton C of E, St Mary’s Moss side and Unity in north Manchester. Our bouncy little volunteers will be sponsored to hop, jump or walk in their cute little bunny ears, all to raise funds for TDS. But beware - Big Bunny is on the loose!

Trafford Centre Palazzo Tower Abseil 2025

Are you brave enough to take on the ultimate challenge: abseiling down the Trafford centre’s Palazzo Tower on Saturday 27 or 28 June 2025?

Registration is now open, so why not join our high fliers and scale those heights of daring, knowing it is all for a good cause?

Kay - One of our carers

Carer Kay did so last year. Here is what she said:

Join us in cheering on our brave volunteers, sending them positive vibes, and if you can, please consider donating! Together, we can ensure that Together Dementia Support continues to shine bright and provide vital support to those in need.

The Great North Swim

If abseiling is not your thing, why not take the plunge in the waters of Windermere? We still have space for a few more swimmers, distances varying from half a mile to 5 miles!

The swim is taking place on Saturday, 14 June, so if you fancy a bit of wild water swimming, here’s your chance

Great Manchester 10k

We need runners, walkers, strollers and rollers to join our TDS team on the Great Manchester 10K on Sunday 18th May. One year, our TDS sessional worker, Anne, (she’s the cheeky one with the green pom poms and base ball cap) came in last but who cares?

It is the taking part that counts and it all goes into the fund to support the fantastic and worthwhile work that TDS does.

A Positive View on Dementia - Nithiah

If you’re looking for a book that will transform your understanding of dementia, I'm Still Here by John Zeisel is a must-read. The title speaks volumes, reminding us that despite dementia, a person remains present, capable, and deserving of meaningful engagement.

When I first started my placement with TDS, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of sadness for those affected. I assumed I would be working with people defined by decline. However, Zeisel reshaped my perspective. As I reflected, I realised that I had unconsciously adopted a common pattern associating dementia with sorrow. While it undeniably takes so much away, Zeisel reminds us that it is not just an end but a new stage of life, no less challenging or interesting than all the earlier stages.

Zeisel urges us to move beyond seeing dementia as an endpoint and instead embrace it as a different way of being. At TDS, we see first-hand how stimulation through music, art, social interaction, and sensory experiences allows individuals to develop new abilities and express themselves in ways they couldn’t before.

One big takeaway from this book is to stop testing the memory of your loved ones. Many of us do this without thinking, believing it helps. But every time we test someone, we remind them of what they’ve forgotten, which can be upsetting. If they get an answer right, we feel relieved; if they get it wrong, we feel guilty for not doing more. But this is about our feelings, not theirs. Zeisel’s advice is simple: don’t test, instead, focus on enjoying the present. At our groups we do this through games, music, singing, being creative, exploring the environment, and lots of shared laughter

I’m sure carers will enjoy this book, as the author acknowledges their burden while offering reassurance, that their loved one is still there and capable of growth.

Nithiah Palani - Social Work Student, University of Manchester
Seconded from Department of Social Welfare, Malaysia

In March’s issue ….

Table of Contents

• Welcome Message from Mary

• What’s been going on at groups…

• 📚 Learning Opportunities & Reading Suggestions! � …

• 🏡 Together at Home stories: Sarah & Pat 🏡

• We’re looking for Sessional Workers!

• Join Team TDS for the Great Manchester Run!

• Our Dementia Support Co-ordinators

• Our Dementia Support Workers

Welcome Message from Mary

Hi, {{ first name | lovely volunteers }} Welcome to your first newsletter of 2025! New Year already feels like a lifetime ago, and lots has happened since, but to my shame - I’ve only just got round to sending this newsletter out to you all. Forgive me. We’ve celebrated Valentine’s Day, Pancake Day and marked the beginning of Ramadan and Lent - and it feels like we’ve left the dark, cold days of winter behind us for another year. There’s new-ness everywhere - tiny new buds on the trees, daffodils and crocusses carpeting the parks, and - if you know what you’re listening for - the sounds of Chiffchaffs singing from the treetops. Tiny little warblers, Chiffchaffs depart for the warmer climates of southern Europe and North Africa in autumn, but are one of the first birds to return - proclaiming that spring is here, and heralding longer days and brighter skies.

Mary, Volunteer Co-Ordinator This is a Chiffchaff - NOT a picture of me.

Chiffchaffs are named after their distinct song - just two notes, with equal emphasis, that give it that ‘chiff chaff’ sound. Have a listen here, and see if you can identify one near you.

Sorry, that’s my bird tangent over - what was I talking about? Ah, Spring! Yes, each morning is a little brighter and the birdsong gets a little louder, the daylight lasts a little longer, and little by little Manchester grows greener around us each day. I’m a great lover of the wonderful poet, Mary Oliver, and as spring creeps it’s way into our parks and gardens, I’ve been thinking about this quote from her poem Invitation:

It is a serious thing
just to be alive
on this fresh morning
in the broken world. 

You can read the whole poem here.

Read on to find out what exciting things have been happening these past few months, and as usual, take care of your precious selves.

Email: volunteers@togetherdementiasupport.org

Phone: 07579831790

What’s been going on at groups…

Here’s what we’ve been up to for the past few weeks - pancakes, trips, flowers & fun!

Pancake flipping at Wythenshawe! Birthday celebrations! Spring flowers at Levenshulme! Decorating plant pots at Moss Side

Flippin’ hell… A trip to Salford Quays for PY! Walk & Talk enjoying the sun! Fun and games at North Manc!

📚 Learning Opportunities & Reading Suggestions! 📚

Do you want to learn something new about dementia and how best to support people?

Dementia Community are a new collaboration of dementia professionals who are trying to keep on sharing best practice. They do this through a free to access online magazine and a series of webinars - you don’t have to be a part of Dementia Community to access these.

You can read an online copy of their most recent journal below. Sally, our CEO, has recommended the article ‘Cognitive Rehabilitation in the community’ on page 27.

CR is an evidence-based approach that supports people with mild to moderate dementia to function at the highest possible level in relation to specific meaningful goals (or SMART goals), reflecting what is important to people.

It’s worth a read, and shares the reflections from the people living with dementia that took part in the CR project.

🏡 Together at Home stories: Sarah & Pat 🏡

Sarah (volunteer) and Pat enjoying a craft activity

Every week, 22 hours of Together at Home visits take place in member’s homes, carried out by our 2 Dementia Support Workers and 9 wonderful volunteers. These visits take place quietly and out of sight, but the value and impact they have on members is huge. We’re trying to put more of a spotlight on this amazing work, and the ways in which volunteers help us provide a truly person centred service - building positive and important social relationships, and delivering creative and meaningful activities.

We asked Sarah, one of our fabulous volunteers, to share her experiences of the service - read on to hear her T@H story…

Could you be a Together at Home volunteer? Do you want to know a bit more about what’s involved? Get in touch with Mary:

📞 07579831790
✉️ volunteers@togetherdementiasupport.org

We’re looking for Sessional Workers!

Join our team!

Soon we’ll be looking for flexible Sessional Workers for our new project - Together Out and About.

It’s a service where a paid sessional worker (this could be you!) will support and enable one of our members living with dementia to get out and about in their local community - perhaps going out to lunch, or to a gallery or museum, or for a walk and a coffee. These visits will help members to access both old and new activities, helping them to actively maintain their interests and confidence.

These visits will also provide family carers with more breaks and opportunity for respite during the week, as the visits will be around 3 hours long.

Could that be you? Do you know someone who fits the bill?

We're planning a staggered start to the project whilst we advertise to families and social services - however, if you feel this could be an opportunity for you, please email Claire with you expression of interest: claire@togetherdementiasupport.org

Join Team TDS for the Great Manchester Run!

Pictured below are our glorious 2024 team of members, carers, volunteers and staff - proudly flashing their medals after finishing the Great Manchester 10k. And this year, we’re going again!

Dust of your trainers, redownload Strava, and join us on Sunday 18 May 2025 to walk, run, roll or jog your way around the mean streets of Manchester for Together Dementia Support. And yes, if you sign up, you DO get a lovely bright green running shirt to wear for the occasion - fashionable AND functional, am I right?

Team TDS after the 2024 10k!

You don’t need to be Eliud Kipchoge or Paula Radcliffe…in fact, you don’t even need to run it, if that doesn’t work for you - our team last year walked it together. It would be really WONDERFUL to have some serious volunteer representation - and a great way to share TDS with your friends and family.

The link below is only to sign up for the 10k, but if you have your eye on a bigger challenge and fancy the half marathon - get in touch with Mary.

All we ask is that you raise a minimum of £200 in support of our work - this also helps us cover the cost of your entry, t-shirts, etc. We’ll send you all the information about fundraising, setting up your JustGiving page, plans for the day and the t-shirt size and type you need.

Our Dementia Support Co-ordinators

Jo Brizland-Cullen Together @ Home Project Co-ordinator South Manchester Friendship & Activity Group Fab Forgetful Friends jo@togetherdementiasupport.org 07421 312 455

Holly Taggart Moss Side Friendship & Activity Group Longsight Friendship & Activity Group North Manchester Friendship & Activity Group holly@togetherdementiasupport.org 07421 125 855

Shabnam Parveen Pyaari Yaadein Friendship & Activity Group shabnam@togetherdementiasupport.org 07421 312 597

Paula McGuire Carer Support Co-ordinator Dementia Cafés Carer Training anna@togetherdementiasupport.org 07421 312 596

Beth Langworthy Carer Support Manager Moss Side Friendship & Activity Group beth@togetherdementiasupport.org 07529 225 034

Mary Sharples Volunteer and Dementia Support Co-ordinator Longsight Friendship & Activity Group mary@togetherdementiasupport.org

Our Dementia Support Workers

Mike Taylor North Manchester Friendship & Activity Group mike@togetherdementiasupport.org 07529 224 862

Daphney Thompson Together @ Home Support Worker daphney@togetherdementiasupport.org 07579 831 791

Welcome to the February TDS Newsletter!

Welcome Message from Sally Ferris, CEO

Well, I’m sure we’re all pleased that January has passed! My evenings have been spent in watching Wolf Hall from beginning to end – something completely different to think about – and to be grateful that we live in the 21st century and not the 16th! It’s been sad in the office as a number of dearly-loved members have died since Christmas. However, we’ve kept busy in trying to catch up with all our assessments and carer catch-up calls. This means that we’re now ready to start taking new referrals once again.

We’re also busy recruiting to three roles in TDS. If you have experience in HR, I.T, marketing, accountancy, or of local government and third sector management, AND if you have time and energy to spare, please get in touch with me or apply via our website: https://www.togetherdementiasupport.org/current-vacancies 

We also have two staff roles vacant – one for a Fundraising Manager and the other for an Operations Manager. Again, please have a look on the website and either apply yourself or encourage anyone who has the skill mix and the passion to make a difference through our work.

Have you, quietly, made a New Year’s resolution? If you’re a carer, I hope you’ve resolved to take more care of yourself, to treat yourself to a break, and to ask someone else to come and spend time with your relative.

For any of you, do you fancy a physical challenge – with good company? Further down you can read about the fundraising challenges we have – walking/running the Manchester 10k, swimming in Lake Windermere, Abseiling at Media City, or hiking in Derbyshire. We are also planning some social that will raise funds for TDS.

We have some better news about actual and possible income for TDS. In December we learned that we’ve gained a third grant from the National Lottery. The funding will be spread over three years and will fund 5 staff posts. We are so grateful to the Lottery, to Miranda Kaunang who helped Sally enormously with the application, and to all of you who buy Lottery tickets each week! Without the Lottery, the charity would have folded years ago.

At the Wythenshawe Dementia Café, Peter leading the celebrations regarding the new Lottery grant!

The other good news is that we are now listed as a provider of daycare with Manchester City Council. This means that YOU can ask for your relative to have “daycare” when his/her needs are assessed by a Social Worker/Care Manager. If Adult Social Care agrees that your relative is eligible to have daycare arranged by them, they will then pay us the full cost of the place at a Friendship & Activity Group or Together At Home or Together Out & About and you will be charged by them.

We can’t be sure how this will work out for the charity as we might not have the staff capacity to meet the demand on services. However, we need to increase income from provision of services as there are fewer grants to fund our work.

Further down in the newsletter is an article about charges for social care services. We would hope that, if Adult Social Care agrees to fund TDS daycare, the amount you will have to pay will be less than paying us direct. If it isn’t, then please carry on paying us as you always have!

This week, Claire and I are going to look at a Dementia Hub that meets every week in Oldham. It’s supposed to be very popular and helpful to carers and people with dementia. If it’s a good model then Manchester might decide to run Dementia Hubs too. We’ll give you a report back.

And, especially, for carers, we have some Winter and Spring walks coming up, an evening meal for recently-bereaved carers, a new Carer Training course, a free meal at the Woodthorpe for north Manchester carers , and a creative half day workshop for all carers.

Coming up for Carers in February 2025

Coming up for Carers in March 2025

What do we offer carers?

At Together Dementia Support we try and support throughout your time as carers and beyond. We recognise that you are the expert in your loved one’s care and deserve the best support and guidance. We are dedicated to providing the support each individual needs, including emotional support, signposting and system navigation, social events and frequent opportunities to learn from other carers.

System navigation

We understand that at times navigating the system and all it’s different organisations can be overwhelming. We can support you in getting the assessments you and your loved ones have a right to, such as carers assessments and needs assessments with social care. We can also join you at those meetings to help advocate for what you both need and want. We have joined families at best interest meetings, to insure the carers needs, as well as your loved one’s, are also considered when it comes to decision making.

Individual Support

We try and keep in touch with carers through our WhatsApp groups, wellbeing reviews, home visits and phone calls, however we do not have a large staff team and encourage you to please get in touch with us through your named worker or calling the office on 0161 2267186 if you would like any individual support. We are very happy to come and chat to you at home or go out for a coffee or walk to offer that advice or be a listening ear.

Peer Support

We are so proud of the family feel TDS carers have created in the support you all offer each other via our WhatsApp groups, dementia cafes and other social events. See our calendar below with our upcoming events, such as our walks, trip to the smart suite and meal out.

Carer’s training

As can be seen on the calendar we have our next 4 week carer training course coming up in March, we will cover what dementia is and as it advances, benefits, legal issues and support for you to care. We also have a first aid course at the Kath Locke Centre and a manual handling course at our Wythenshawe dementia café.

Wednesday Walk & Talk

Now that the Pavilion Café is open again, we’re really hoping that some of you will come and join our cheerful group of strollers in Alexandra Park on Wednesday mornings. There are already some snowdrops to cheer you up and the daffodils won’t be far behind. Even if the weather isn’t good, there are always some fun activities to do over a cuppa in the café.

Jenni, pictured below, has been strolling for many years now. Perhaps it’s the Walk & Talk group that’s keeping her so healthy!

Please share your experiences of moving into a Care Home

Are you a carer with experience of moving the person you care for into a care home? If so, we want to hear from you. tide is writing a report for the Care Quality Commission looking at how care homes can ensure that carers continue to feel involved as an equal partner in providing care and support, after the person with dementia has gone into care.

Too many carers tell us that they went from a carer, to a visitor and were not ready, or happy with this change in roles.

Carers tell us that they want to be seen as an important part of the care team around the person with dementia. We want to make sure that true 'shared care' is a reality for all carers who wish to continue their caring role.

You can help us by completing this questionnaire which will take about 15 minutes. The questionnaire is open on Survey Monkey until12pm on the 10th February, 2025.

If you wish to join tide’s network, please click here TIDE - Together In Dementia Everyday - Join our network. You will be combining your voice with carers across the UK who want to improve the lives of all carers of people with dementia.

Thank you for your time and support.

Equipment adaptations that can help you in the bathroom

We know that some of you have been struggling to get adaptations done at home.

If you or your relative are struggling in being able to wash, bath or shower then you might be entitled to minor or major adaptations.

The first thing to do is to self-refer to Manchester’s Adult Social Care Contact Centre (0161 234 5001) as they may be able to arrange for grab rails to be fitted or a bath board to be sent out to you.

However, if you are a home owner, you might be able to get these things supplied via charity Manchester Care & Repair – and this may be the quicker option (0161 872 55). Remember that they also have a list of approved contractors who can give you a quote for building work.

The council department that assess for and oversee major adaptations is called MEAP (Manchester Equipment and Adaptations Partnership). However, you will be means-tested to see if you qualify for a grant to do this work. Even if you are eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant, for a wet room, for instance, the MEAP website states

We really understand the stress that this long waiting time puts you under. You can, of course, complain to your local councillor but we’re all fully aware that all local councils are struggling with budget cuts and so it’s no surprise that there is such a long wait.

If you’re on our Carers WhatsApp group, you can share advice, ideas or compare your experience with others “Has this happened to you?”.

It might also help you to visit the Smart Suite - the showroom of MEAP, where you can see all the equipment that can be provided and how adaptations could help.

Paula has arranged a TDS Carers trip there on Thursday 13 March. Get in touch if you’d like to go.

Paying for non-residential care services

This is another complex subject, I’m afraid! But it may help some of you to see the details of how your loved one is assessed for homecare or daycare (see the MCC document below)

It’s not helpful that often, when the Care Needs assessment is done, you’re not told how much the services will cost – the financial assessment comes later. However, that’s because the assessment can be complicated with you supplying a lot of information. When you do tell the assessor about your relative’s savings and income, you should also tell them about all the ‘disability-related expenditure that your relative also has - incontinence products, special food, additional heating costs, transport etc.

However, the general rule is that, if your relative has savings over £23,250, they will be classed as a self-funder and have to pay in full for homecare or day care until their savings drop below that level. 

It’s really important that your relative has all the welfare benefits that he/she is entitled to as this will help offset these costs. The most important benefit that almost everyone with dementia is entitled to is Attendance Allowance (called PIP, if the person is under 65 years). 

TDS can arrange for you/your relative to have a complete benefits check and also assist you in claiming Attendance Allowance and the SMI Council Tax discount. Both of those welfare benefits are NOT means-tested but are granted because of the dementia and the particular living circumstances

eBay for TDS - you can help!

Our story so far

Since we began our eBay for TDS shop we have been making great strides. We now have over 70 items listed with more being added each day. If they all sell at the asked for price they would raise over £900. Last year we received £897.27 net after postage and fees had been deducted. We have also posted some of our items on Vinted which seems to do better for clothes.

How you can help?

Nearly all our items on the eBay shop are donated. The exceptions are our charity Christmas cards, calendars and key ring torches. If you have unwanted and unused Christmas presents or other gifts, or if you have good quality items that you no longer want or can use, why not donate them to us so we can add them to our eBay shop? Check us out to see the type of goods that we are currently offering:  https://charity.ebay.co.uk/charity/i/Together-Dementia-Support/325486

Which items are suitable?

Coats, dresses, good quality jewellery, handbags, and unused beauty products have all found buyers in the past. If you would take it to a charity shop, we can probably take it too. 

Which items are not suitable?

Broken, not working, or damaged items, incomplete jigsaw puzzles and games, clothes that are worn or torn are not accepted. Unfortunately books and DVDs do not seem to sell well though if there a number of DVDs or Boxed sets we could offer them as a bundle. We cannot sell food or alcohol but the latter could be donated to TDS for a raffle prize.

What to do next

If possible, take a photo of your item and email it to christine@togetherdementiasuupport.org  She can decide if your item is suitable for selling on line and the next steps that need to be taken.

Get involved with TDS Fundraising 2025

Bunny Hop 2025 

In the run up to Easter we are calling on Primary Schools to organise sponsored Bunny Hops for TDS. 

Hats off to All Saints Primary school in Newton Heath and St Mary's in Moss Side for raising nearly £2,000 last year. They did a lot of hopping!

We'll provide schools with bunny ears to keep, sponsorship forms, and a visit from the TDS team.

If you know a primary school that might want to get involved, please send us their details and we'll get in touch. 

Manchester Marathon Man - Su

Dave and his Mum

We're delighted that Dave Seneviratne has chosen to run the 'flat and friendly' Manchester Marathon in support of TDS.

That's a whopping 50,000 steps. Dave is running in memory of his Mum, whom we remember with love. 

If you feel like cheering on Dave, we're sure he'd love the support on the day.

Manchester 10k - Sunday 18^th  May

Team TDS is taking on the Manchester 10k again and this time with 25 places. Whether you're a runner, walker or roller, we'd love to have you with us or cheering us on. Last year we had TDS members and carers in the team and hopefully that will happen again this year. Please spread the word to friends, family and colleagues who might fancy the challenge and want to raise funds for a great cause. Rumour has it that our wonderful CEO Sally Ferris has already signed up.

Great North Swim - Saturday 14^th  June, Lake Windermere

Open water swimmers are invited to join Team TDS as we take on the Great North Swim in England's biggest lake. We're looking for cold water addicts who can do a half mile or a mile in support of our essential work. Have a chat with me /Miranda to find out more miranda@togetherdementiasupport.org Return transport in the TDS minibus will be available. 

Trafford Centre Abseiling - Friday 27^th  June and Saturday 28^th  June 10am

If you can do heights and want to try out abseiling why not join our intrepid team. We're going back to the Trafford Palazzo tower and we have 10 places available on each day. A fantastic opportunity for an office team that likes a challenge. Young people aged 12 -18 are very welcome to join us on Saturday 28th. Registration opens soon and in the meantime email us to express interest admin@togetherdementiasupport.org 

80s Night

Whether you're in your 80s, can remember the 80s or just like to dress up and dance, we have a fabulous night coming up in June.

Our friends at Manchester and Cheshire Construction are planning a wonderful evening and we'll have the date confirmed very soon. Be a Super Trouper and join us. Costumes optional!

Together We Are Strong

We were humbled by all the support TDS received in 2024. Alongside our big challenge events, there were stalls at fairs, cash collections, unexpected gifts, donations in memory, and beautiful crafts made for Christmas. 

Dementia takes so much from our loved ones, our families, our communities, and there's a risk of feeling quite powerless. Our fundraising volunteers, supporters and staff didn't let that happen. We thank you all. 

Here's to another great fundraising year together. 

In December’s issue ….

Table of Contents

• Welcome Message from Mary

• 🎄 Christmas at the Cathedral 🎄

• ✨A lovely volunteers social!✨

• New Year, New Opportunities: We’re looking for Ses …

• New Volunteers for Together at Home:

• We need YOU!

• Our Dementia Support Co-ordinators

• Our Dementia Support Workers

Welcome Message from Mary

Hi, {{ first name | lovely volunteers }} Welcome to your final volunteer’s bulletin of 2024! Bloody hell - where did the time go? I can’t believe that this time last year, I hadn’t even started at TDS as your Volunteer Co-Ordinator! It’s been a big year for TDS with lots of moving and changing, and I’ll say it until I’m blue in the face but we just couldn’t have done it without each and every single one of you.

Mary, Volunteer Co-Ordinator

I’m finishing this year just unbelievably grateful for all of you - for the impact that your big hearts have on our members and carers, and for all you bring to our community. You are something to celebrate, and I hope your lives have been made brighter and better for being a part of what we do here.

I truly believe that TDS is really somethings special - and so much of that is you.

Christmas party season at Longsight!

Wythenshawe’s festive feast! Volunteer’s Christmas Social!

But let’s chat Christmas….

Lots of you will be celebrating Christmas in one way or another in the coming week, but it’s not always merry and bright. I know that Christmas isn’t always a time of celebration for everyone - it can be a really tough time of the year for lots of different reasons.

Whether you’re far from home or far from the people you love, whether you’re missing those who aren’t with us anymore, or the festive season brings up painful memories; whether you’re lonely or struggling with your mental health, navigating difficult relationships; or whether you’re conscious that so much of the world isn’t carefree and merry - the truth of the Christmas story is that nothing really looks like it’s supposed to.

It’s a story of love being found in unexpected places, so whether you celebrate Christmas or not, and whatever your celebrations look like, perhaps listen for whispers of hope and joy in an ancient tale of being within the difficult realities of life.

Here’s hoping that we all feel that love, hope and joy this coming year.

From all of us here at TDS, we’re wishing you a peaceful and restful Christmas and an exceptionally joyful start to the new year. We’ll see you in 2025!

Read on to find out what exciting things have been happening this month, and as usual, take care of your precious selves.

Email: volunteers@togetherdementiasupport.org

Phone: 07579831790

🎄 Christmas at the Cathedral 🎄

On Sunday 15th December, we had our annual Christmas at the Cathedral event at Manchester Cathedral - an afternoon of celebration, festivities and music! It turned out to be a huge success and was an absolutely lovely occasion.

We were treated to some fantastic musical performances from the Crumpsall Concert Band, the amazing Soprano Nicola Mills, the TDS Gospel Choir, and The Choir That Can - made up of members from our North Manchester Group. We also had a performance from the Button Lane Primary School Choir who stepped in at the last minute, but were wonderful (and very cute)! All of the acts had audiences dancing, clapping and singing alone…the festive vibes were very strong.

It was really special to see our members take centre stage and entertaining hundreds of people so beautifully in such a gorgeous, historic venue. It really shows what people living with dementia can do and achieve with the right support and opportunity, and highlights what we’re really about here at TDS - platforming and raising up the voices of our community.

It was a pretty big event, with lots of spinning plates and moving parts, and we couldn’t have pulled it off without our team of superstar event volunteers.

We had volunteers doing everything from checking tickets, ushering and showing audience members to their seats, serving festive drinks and snacks, manning the merchandise and raffle stalls, to supporting our two choirs.

It was a mega team effort - so a HUGE thank you too all who helped out.

Catering Teams on the case! Lisa and Margaret in position!

TDS volunteers? Or Bouncers? The raffle table!

✨A lovely volunteers social!✨

Another lovely festive occasion we’ve had recently was our Volunteer’s Winter Social, at the beginning of December…

A group of 50 volunteers, staff and trustees braved both the stormy winter weather and the chaos of Manchester City Centre to enjoy an all-you-can-eat world buffet at Cosmos. We had volunteers from across all our services, and it was lovely to see so many of you amazing volunteers under one roof and see and hear connections and friendships being made.

Again, thank you to all of you who came along. Taking you all out for dinner is just one small way in which we try and show you how thankful we are for all that you do as volunteers, and the time and energy you share with us.

There will be another big social to look forward to in late spring/early summer, and hopefully some smaller social occasions before then.

New Year, New Opportunities: We’re looking for Sessional Workers!

Join our team!

In the New Year, we will be looking for flexible Sessional Workers for a new project - Together Out and About.

It’s a service where a paid sessional worker (this could be you!) will support and enable one of our members living with dementia to get out and about in their local community - perhaps going out to lunch, or to a gallery or museum, or for a walk and a coffee. These visits will help members to access both old and new activities, helping them to actively maintain their interests and confidence.

These visits will also provide family carers with more breaks and opportunity for respite during the week, as the visits will be around 3 hours long.

Could that be you? Do you know someone who fits the bill?

We're planning a staggered start to the project whilst we advertise to families and social services - however, if you feel this could be an opportunity for you, please email Claire with you expression of interest: claire@togetherdementiasupport.org

New Volunteers for Together at Home:

We need YOU!

What is Together at Home?

TAH is our 1:1 home visiting and befriending service. We match trained volunteers with one of our members living with dementia in their local community. Volunteers then visit every week or every fortnight, to take part in fun, social and creative activities and sometimes exercise. It might be doing an arts and craft activity, some gardening, listening to or playing music or even going for a local walk and visiting a cafe…it all depends on what that member is interested in! We try and match people around shared interests, so hopefully you’ll find the activities engaging as well!

And we’re looking for a fresh new batch of volunteers to join our existing TAH volunteering team…could this be you?

What am I signing up for?

If you’re already volunteering with us, you’ll have picked up loads of beneficial experience, understanding and communication techniques at groups or dementia cafes that you can easily translate into a 1:1 environment. All that’s required is coming along to one of our TAH Volunteer Training Session (these are usually around 3-4 hours long) and we’ll show or teach you everything else you need to know.

SAVE THE DATE! Our next TAH training session is scheduled for:

🗓️ - Wednesday 5th February 2025
📍 - Kath Locke Centre, Moss Lane East, M15 5DD
⏲️ - 1pm to 4:30pm

If you might be interested, or you’d like to have more of a chat about TAH - get in touch with Mary via email or phone:

📧 volunteers@togetherdementiasupport.org
☎️ 07579831790

Please note: you can do TAH as well as your existing volunteer role, if you’d like to!

Our Dementia Support Co-ordinators

Jo Brizland-Cullen Together @ Home Project Co-ordinator South Manchester Friendship & Activity Group Fab Forgetful Friends jo@togetherdementiasupport.org 07421 312 455

Holly Taggart Moss Side Friendship & Activity Group Longsight Friendship & Activity Group North Manchester Friendship & Activity Group holly@togetherdementiasupport.org 07421 125 855

Shabnam Parveen Pyaari Yaadein Friendship & Activity Group shabnam@togetherdementiasupport.org 07421 312 597

Paula McGuire Carer Support Co-ordinator Dementia Cafés Carer Training anna@togetherdementiasupport.org 07421 312 596

Beth Langworthy Carer Support Manager Moss Side Friendship & Activity Group beth@togetherdementiasupport.org 07529 225 034

Mary Sharples Volunteer and Dementia Support Co-ordinator Longsight Friendship & Activity Group mary@togetherdementiasupport.org

Our Dementia Support Workers

Mike Taylor Wythenshawe Friendship & Activity Group Walk & Talk - Alexandra Park North Manchester Friendship & Activity Group mike@togetherdementiasupport.org 07529 224 862

Daphney Thompson Together @ Home Support Worker daphney@togetherdementiasupport.org 07579 831 791

Hello {{first_name | reader}}

In December's issue:

• Welcome message from Sally

• Winter Activities at South Manchester

• Manchester 10k 2025: Sign up to walk, roll, jog or …

• Did we tell you about…?

• Our Carer’s Christmas Party!

• The UK Dementia Congress 2024

• Personal Care

• TDS Christmas Closure

Welcome message from Sally

We’re nearly at the end of another year, a time when, wisely or not, we tend to reflect…

For TDS, overall, it’s been a good year. The BIG positive news is that the National Lottery have awarded us another 3-year grant. That’s a massive relief as, we would have been facing hard decisions without it. The financial pressure isn’t off yet and so we’re still planning lots of fundraisers for 2025 - hoping to reach people in workplaces and beyond, who might want to run, swim or climb hills for us! We’ll also continue to seek out companies who want to partner with us.

Sally Ferris, CEO

We’ve lost some precious members and carers this year. That’s the nature of our work.

Some wonderful staff members have also moved on to new work opportunities; thankfully, we’ve also recruited some great new ones too. I hope you’ll get to know Holly and Paula really well next year. Because we are currently operating with a reduced carer support team, we need you to phone in to the office with all your queries, as our staff might not have the time to reach out to you. There will always be someone here who will talk to you and give you advice.

Our members getting festive!

Some of the staff team (and volunteer Nargis) at the Volunteer’s Social!

I really want to say a massive thanks to all of you who have supported our work so much this year. It is your commitment and generosity (time, talent, and money) that encourages us to keep going when the going gets tough. Sunday’s concert at Manchester cathedral was a fitting end of year, multi-generational celebration . We’ll post photos and an edited film of the event on our website within the week.

Our Together at Home Members getting crafty!

When I look at the TDS 2025 calendar, I’m reminded of the lovely things our members have done at groups and Cafes, with their Together At Home visitor, or on trips out. We all need to seize any opportunity to enjoy good/happy experiences when we can, don’t we?

Sadly, even with a change of Government, there is still no new national strategy or funding for dementia and we hear loud and clear how frustrated and angry you are. I’m pleased that two TDS carers, Naz and Margaret, are members of the Manchester Carers Reference Group and so will be able to get your needs and ideas heard at the highest level. Let’s really hope that the respite offer for carers is improved considerably next year.

All the TDS team wish you you good health and a relaxed, happy Christmas. And, thankfully, the WhatsApp group will be there for you to share greetings, photos, or for you to offload if you’re having tough times.

Sally, CEO
Together Dementia Support

Winter Activities at South Manchester

By Jo Brizland-Cullen, Dementia Support Co-ordinator

Our lovely South Manchester group!

As winter sets in, with dark and gloomy days, it can have a big impact on our mood and sense of wellbeing. Our South Manchester group, for people living with dementia, enjoyed a lovely activity, talking about and looking at things that might make us feel more positive and happy. The session created a lot of talk about lifted spirits, so we wanted to share it with you.

Being in nature teaches us how we can learn to adapt and change, much like how trees do. At the moment, you will see how the leaves have fallen off the tress for winter, letting go of all that has been and gone this year. They are resting, waiting for new shoots in the spring, as the cycle begins again.

We drew a big tree and all the members were given red berry circles on which to write what makes them happy or feel more positive. We had a compost heap at the side of the tree for all the things we wanted to throw away.

Not all of the conversations were captured as we made the tree, however the one thing that a few members said was that they would like to throw dementia on the compost heap! We echo their sentiments!

Some of the group’s positives included: Gardening Coming to the group Sunshine Walking with others Nice food A good video My cat Jess the dog Nice people Meeting up with friends And reiterated a few times…cake!

What would some of your positives be? What would you throw onto your compost heap?

Manchester 10k 2025: Sign up to walk, roll, jog or run to raise money for TDS!

Polish off those running shoes - it’s time to get our team together for the Manchester 10k! Next year’s event will take place on Sunday 18 May 2025 and signups are officially…OPEN!

We have been allocated an amazing 25 places this year, and you can choose whether you go with our fast group (joggers and runners) or our steady group (walkers and rollers).

Eve and Mary

Demi & Maddie (Private Client Solicitors)

This year’s team raised an astonishing £2,687 - can you help us break their record?

Did we tell you about…?

The fabulous performance of some of our South Asian members at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall, as part of a dementia music festival called ‘So Many Beauties’. 

The group had had visits from a Bhangra artist, who had taught them a seated exercise/dance routine which celebrated the rituals of working the land – sowing seed, watering, harvesting and feasting.  Not only did the group enjoy the activities at their group, they were also thrilled to perform on the mainstage, along with another South Asian group from Rochdale. 

Our Carer’s Christmas Party!

Dancing the night away!

Last Friday, we threw our annual Christmas bash for all our wonderful carers, to attend with their loved ones. Paula, our new Carer Support Co-Ordinator here at TDS gave us her official party review:

We are also hoping to set a new date in the new year for the postponed meal out for Carers in North Manchester.

Merry Christmas everyone!

Paula & Beth hard at work!

Festive nibbles & a Christmas quiz!

Carer’s Story: Judith

Peter is my long-term partner and he was diagnosed with Vascular dementia in 2021.   

I love taking Peter to all the TDS groups and functions – he absolutely loves being with people. I really pride myself in taking care of him well…I take him out as much as I can as he needs to be active. I’ve also secured the house so if he gets up in the evening, I can relax as I know the house is safe.  

TDS has helped me so much- I feel I can ask for advise and all the staff there are very helpful. There’s too many to mention by name! I also now volunteer at the Wythenshawe group where Peter goes, as at the moment he just wants me to be with him all the time.  However as the same time, he can start to mix with other people, play sports with his friends there and I can have a bit of a break as he is engaged and I too am making new friends with the volunteers. We both love attending!

I still try and give Peter a choice in his life, that could be from the meals that I prepare to the clothes he puts on in the morning. I keep the choice simpler but it’s still giving him some independence in his life.   

My motto for caring is to try and stay positive and to remember it is an illness, it’s not Peter’s fault. I never let him see me upset although I do get down - I try take some time out.  Peter is still my soul mate and I love him tremendously.  

The UK Dementia Congress 2024

Every year there is a gathering of professionals, people living with dementia and carers at the Dementia Congress.  This year it was held in Coventry and was attended by Sally, Helen - one of our volunteers, and Louise Lynch - a carer and podcaster.

Carer and Podcaster, Louise

…and her podcast!

Sally enjoyed presentations about: 

1. Therapeutic lying (the consensus being that if we are being genuine and compassionate, if it’s done for the right reasons, to maintain the wellbeing of the person with dementia, and if we also remember to validate the person’s emotions, then it’s ok),  

2. People who live alone with dementia. In that presentation there was a powerful statement about the experience of people with dementia - ‘people with dementia often experience a kind of social death’, as others no longer engage with them, and instead either address the caregiver or spouse, or shun interaction altogether’.

   Find out more here:  https://livingalonewithdementia.co.uk 

3. Barriers to engaging with people from BAME communities.  We were reminded that 14% of the 900,000 people living with dementia in the UK are from these communities. Those people need services just like everyone else but economic hardship, cultural attitudes to caregiving, language, trust issues, and prejudice/discrimination are all barriers to successful involvement. 

We also asked Louise what she thought, and she shared her first impressions:

Personal Care

As a person’s dementia progresses, a person will often need more help with personal care tasks such as washing and bathing.  People may still believe they are doing these activities well enough themselves and may not like to be challenged about it. (Just imagine someone telling you that you aren’t clean or that you smell.  It would be most rude, embarrassing or humiliating, if you truly believe that you are clean and well presented).

For most adults, these are personal and private activities, so it can be hard for everyone to adjust. It’s important that you gently try and support your family members to wash and dress in a way that respects their preferences and their dignity. This stage can be a struggle for carers to adapt to, and sometimes it’s better to let agency carers do these tasks.

There has been some recent chat on the WhatsApp group that we thought was really useful so we’re sharing the “top tips” that were posted by other carers and our Carers Champion:   

• Sometimes it’s about creating the right environment with showering so that it’s less stressful for everyone. An obvious thing is to ensure that the bathroom is nice and warm.  Maybe use a nice scented candle, perfumed shower gel, and gentle communication... almost creating a special ‘spa experience’.

• If there is incontinence that needs support with – ask their GP for a referral to the Continence Services or self-refer (see the Manchester Dementia Directory for the contact details).  

• People can often feel embarrassed if having to have help with showers (whether this is with family members or paid carers) if this is an issue we recommend the attractively designed shower drap-ons from Limonattire. Like a veil for the body, simply draping over the wearer and covering everything that it needs to. Importantly, the lightweight fabric is light enough to allow water through and is easily lifted to wash underneath without needing to be removed.

• The use of dry shampoo caps and body washes may help people who are not keen on washes or showers …there are lots of different products around like no rinse shower caps and no rinse bodywash. Take a look here.

• Using a barrier cream around certain areas that are prone to rashes or infection. Speak to your GP for the right prescription.  

• If adaptions or equipment are needed for the bathroom, ask for an Occupational Therapy assessment from the Adult Social Care Contact Centre (0161 234 5001) or if you just need some grab rails, you can request them from Manchester Care and Repair (0161 872 5500 ). 

Have you tried a Drapon like this?

TDS Christmas Closure

The TDS office will close at 4pm on Monday 23rd December and will re-open at 9am on Thursday 2 January. 

Please do phone us on the 2nd January if you need someone to talk to or if you need any help whatsoever.  

All of our groups and Together At Home visits will finish on Friday 20th December and will restart on Monday 6th January. 

If you need URGENT HELP from Social Services (now called ADULT SOCIAL CARE), phone 0161 234 5001. 

If you have a mental health emergency, and need help from the mental health professionals, phone: 0800 953 0285 

Dates for the Diary: Events for January

Group Leader, Mike, and member Ollie! Determined December walkers!

Walk & Talk Every Wednesday, 11:00 - 12:30 In the New Year we’d love to see more of you at our Walk & Talk Group, that meets each Wednesday morning in Alexandra Park. There are so many benefits to being in green spaces and to walking – for all of us.  We are only able to support a small number of unaccompanied members with dementia but we’d welcome more carers to bring their relative along.  We have been eagerly awaiting the opening of the new café in the park, called Café Bembe.  We are told that it will open in January.  Get in touch via phone or e-mail if you’d like to join the group.

The PY Carer’s Group meet on occasional Tuesday evenings in Victoria Park. Shabnam is busy planning the programme for this group in 2025, and would welcome new members!

The first meeting of the year will be Tuesday 21st January, 6:30pm. Get in touch with Shabnam to sign up: 07421 312456 or shabnam@togetherdementiasupport.org