ABOUT US

A Lymington resident cared for her husband when he developed dementia due to Alzheimer's Disease. This had an impact it would be difficult to over-estimate, and she realised, especially during the last year of his life, how isolating this experience had been: and how much she would have appreciated local help, support and information: and perhaps most of all, someone who would listen and understand.
After her contacting the National Society, a small group of people met in January 1991 and the branch was begun. Since then it has grown and its influence spread throughout the New Forest and it has helped many people.

The first branch worker was Support Worker Linda Nicol who initiated the monthly meetings and (with Carers' Together) developed the system of carers' cafes across the New Forest.
Carers courses were begun to give support and information to people looking after friends and relatives with dementia. We were fortunate to have the support of Dr Gemma Jones, an international expert in dementia care.
The first Outreach Worker Phyl Tappin was appointed at the end of 2004 to give more in-depth support to families.
The branch has also developed training to give the benefit of its expertise in dementia care to those in paid dementia care, including sharing our experience as carers. We also draw on other professionals to contribute to training.
We are currently running a Befriending Scheme which will provide listening support for carers by trained volunteers.
A successful lottery grant in 2007 has enabled the appointment of two further part time outreach workers, Clare Sedgley and Jennie Chapman, and we are working on further expanding of services by the appointment of the branch manager David High.
We have recently developed an Art group for people with dementia, and others are enjoying fishing and going walking with volunteers. More recently a music group has been established.
We are developing new groups and activities in the Western and Eastern Forest, including the new groups at Fordingbridge and Hythe. These have been hugely successful right from the first meeting.

Apart from the branch manager and three part time care workers, for whom funding has to be found, all the branch activities are energised and run by volunteers. If you would like to know more about volunteering or fundraising for us, please contact Phyl Tappin 01425 626151 or email.