A church near Wakefield is leading the way during Dementia Action Week – May 21 -27. The week, which in the past has been known as Dementia Awareness Week is promoted by the Alzheimer's Society. This year there is an emphasis on taking action.
In response, the church of St James the Great, Chapelthorpe, near Wakefield has gained Dementia Friendly status and will be opening up on Saturday May 26 so that anyone living with dementia can come into church and experience past memories of church in general and hopefully happy occasions in their lives.
Vicar of St James, the Revd Kevin Greaves, says that the aim is to create an environment which will be a good experience for those living with dementia and their carers.
“In the background a CD will be playing traditional hymns, which go back to earlier days, sung by a choir. Those who come in will be encouraged to share a 'cuppa' with us and hopefully share those memories at the same time.
“In 2013 I was part of The Castleford Team Parish and was one of the first parishes to be recognised as dementia friendly. From that time I have held the position of the chair of The Wakefield Dementia Action Alliance, which is a partnership of sixty partners from all sectors working to share best practice, sharing resources and helping support those living with the disease and their carers.”
The church will be open from 2pm until 4pm on Saturday 26 May – more details here
