Do you have an interest in working with people with dementia?

Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin is currently looking to recruit more volunteers at their dementia respite service based at the Choices Housing Association building at Withywood, Ellesmere Road, Shrewsbury.

The service offers carers the chance to have a full day to themselves safe in the knowledge their loved one is being cared for by a trained, experienced caring team. Set in a new building with fantastic facilities, the respite service runs each Monday, excluding public holidays 10am – 4pm.

Two additional volunteers are being sought to join the dedicated team on Monday afternoons from 2 – 4.30pm.

In Shropshire an estimated 7,000 people are diagnosed as living with dementia. However, it is estimated that in excess of 1,300 people over the age of 65 may have symptoms but are currently without a diagnosis.

Heather Osborne, Chief Executive of Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, said “Our dementia respite service is designed to help those living with dementia and offer support to their carers. We know just how important it is for carers to take a break whether it’s to run errands, meet friends, or simply do a spot of shopping. It also gives the person living with dementia important social interactions and opportunities to pursue hobbies and interests, remain active, get involved and form new friendships.”

If you are considering volunteering please contact Janice Williams or Becky Kelly on 01743 588 570.

Alternatively, if you wish to find out more about volunteering in general, then please email volunteering@ageukstw.org.uk or visit www.ageukshropshireandtelford.org.uk.

Training and support will be provided by Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, and out of pocket expenses are paid.

Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin also provide nine dementia drop in centres across Shropshire giving people living with dementia and their carers the opportunity to get to know new people, share experiences and take part in stimulating activities.

For more information and to book a visit to look around Withywood with the Dementia Support Team, contact Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin on 01743 233123 or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/shropshireandtelford