Dementia cafe is a big success

Organised by Dementia Friendly Todmorden, the monthly cafe returned to the town hall on Saturday.

Its aim is to bring those with dementia together along with their carers, as well as older people on their own who may be looking for company. While there, visitors could enjoy a spot of lunch, a cuppa and a chat.

And for those with a creative streak, there was a chance to take part in a session on how to make greeting cards.

Mayor of Todmorden Councillor Steph Booth said: “It went really well and we had a lot of people coming through, with some coming from homes.

“The police and fire service were talking to people, the atmosphere was great and everybody enjoyed it.

“We’re trying to expand the remit of what we do, so we made greeting cards which went really well.”

The aim of Dementia Friendly Todmorden is to make the town more aware of dementia to better and support and understand the needs of people with dementia.

Over the last few months the group has benefited from the support of the Todmorden Fire Service, Todmorden Police and businesses in the town.

Todmorden Town Council, Todmorden Rotary Club and Incredible Edible Todmorden are also to become Dementia Friendly organisations.

Many involved with the project have a personal experience of living with someone with dementia and are committed to raising awareness.

Councillor Booth added: “I think people find the prospect of dementia quite frightening, but the more we know and talk about it, the more normal it is.

“I remember when I was a little girl, noone would talk about cancer. We need to normalise dementia in the same way as cancer.”

More cafes are planned for the year and if you would like to find out more about Dementia Friendly Todmorden, visit www.dementiatodmorden.co.uk.