CRICKHOWELL’S aim of becoming a dementia friendly community will move a step closer later this month when a public meeting hopes to form a steering group.

The meeting is to be held on February 27 at 6pm with the purpose of moving towards recognising Crickhowell as a Dementia Friendly Community.

Ian Thomas of the Alzheimer’s Society will be chairing the meeting and says, ‘We are hoping to welcome representatives from all interested local parties, including individuals, carers, volunteers, professionals and businesses and we would love the opportunity to hear questions and suggestions on how we can develop awareness and support within our community’.

‘Significant good work is already going on in Crickhowell, so we would want to help by acting as a reporting forum and practical support and development co-ordinator rather than taking over the reins’.

A new dementia friendly Social Cafe is also planned for the town. Called ‘Caffi Croeso’ it is being funded by the ‘Living with Dementia’ Society at present and in the future by local businesses and fund raising projects.

The café, based at the Parish Hall, will have its launch on Tuesday, April 17 at 2pm with a party atmosphere and a special guest appearance by an Elvis tribute act. It will initially be a monthly event where everyone will be welcome.

One of the organisers, Suzan Alderton, commented, ‘It will offer a fun, welcoming and relaxing environment for people to take part in social activities.

‘The cafe is where you can make new friends and enjoy talking together or sit back and read a newspaper or magazine. You can take up the opportunity to take part in activities like arts and crafts and games and lots more.

‘Future activities may include animal therapy, performances from choirs, entertainers; if desired, outings to restaurants, visits to museums, concerts, other cultural venues as the opportunities arise. The way the cafe develops will be guided by those who attend. 

‘There will be information available on a wide range of topics and interests and we will invite professionals and volunteer agencies that can help with specific enquiries. There is no need to book your place – just turn up and enjoy the company.’

Anyone wishing to get involved with the efforts to create a dementia friendly environment in Crickhowell can contact Mike & Suzan Alderton at [email protected].