Thatcham Town Council to hold special events in support of Dementia Action Week

Thatcham is set to host two special community initiatives in support of Dementia Action Week.

The town council is running two events for Dementia Action Week, running from May 19 to 21, as part of the ‘Paint the Town Blue’ campaign led by Dementia Friendly West Berkshire.

Thatcham will be turned blue with hundreds of community-crocheted forget-me-nots – the official flower of Dementia Action Week – adorning the Broadway to raise awareness of the support available to those living with and caring for loved ones with dementia.

Shops and businesses are invited to join in by decorating their shop fronts, with information packs to be available throughout the week from many of the outlets in town.

The week’s activities will continue with a Fundraising Garden Party on Friday, May 23, from 10am to 12.30pm in the Jubilee Sensory Garden, which will be open to everyone.

Hosted by Thatcham Town Council and Home Instead, the occasion will provide visitors with the chance to enjoy tea, cake and live music, all while raising funds for Age UK, The Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia UK.

Home Instead carers will be on hand to ensure the wellbeing of all attendees and to lead a free informative session on practical advice and insights for anyone supporting a loved one living with dementia at 11.30am.

The talk will cover early signs, coping techniques and local resources.

Each attendee will receive a free information booklet.

Director of Home Instead Melissa Johnson said: “We are delighted to be joining forces with Thatcham Town Council for this wonderful event.

“Our dementia information session will offer guidance for families, friends, and even customer-facing staff who want to better support those living with dementia in our community.”

No booking is required.