How does dementia affect people? Dementia is a complex and challenging condition that affects individuals diagnosed with it as well as their families and loved ones. It affects cognitive functions, memory, reasoning, and behaviour, often leading to difficulties in daily functioning and social interactions. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience increasing dependency on others for assistance with activities of daily living.
What do you do? At Town Break Dementia Support Services, we provide holistic support to individuals and families affected by dementia across Forth Valley. Our services include community engagement, creative expression through various artistic activities, cognitive stimulation to promote mental well-being, and dedicated support for unpaid carers. We aim to create moments of joy, connection, and well-being while recognising the unique journey that each individual and their family navigate.
How many people do you help? We have assisted more than 12,500 families affected by dementia through our various support services since the charity was started. Since COVID-19 we have seen increased demand. In 2022 we supported 322 new referrals plus people who access our weekly services. This was a 61% increase on 2021 and 228% on pre-COVID-19 (2019). In 2023 supported more families than ever. Throughout 2023, we received 349 new referrals on top of the people we support weekly. This was an 8.4% increase on 2022.
How much money do you make annually? As a charitable organisation, our funding primarily comes from donations, grants, and trusts. The exact amount of annual income can vary depending on these factors and the specific needs of our programs and services. Our last audited account from 2022 was £291,223. Our next account will not be available until after our AGM and they have been externally audited.
How would £3000 help and what would you do with the money? A donation of £3000 to Town Break Dementia Support Services would make a significant impact on our mission. Here's an example of how we could allocate the funds:
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Expand Outreach: We would reach new communities, ensuring that our services are accessible to all who need them.
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Enhance Activities: Introduce innovative activities that bring joy, inspiration, and a sense of achievement to our participants, fostering a vibrant and engaging environment.
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Education and Training: Invest in continuous training for our staff and volunteers, keeping them updated with the latest advancements in dementia care and ensuring the highest quality of support for our service users.
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Technology Integration: Explore and implement technology solutions to enhance our services, such as virtual support groups or online resources, ensuring we remain adaptive and innovative in meeting the evolving needs of those affected by dementia.
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Overall, the support would contribute to the well-being and happiness of individuals and families facing the challenges of dementia, creating a resilient and thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to live well and cherish every moment.
