Bridgend Dementia Hub – A Safe Space for Carers and Loved Ones

mhmadmin
4 days ago
5 min read

Caring for someone with dementia is both a privilege and a challenge. Carers are the unsung heroes who provide comfort, support, and stability to their loved ones, often placing their own well-being second. At Mental Health Matters Wales (MHM Wales), we recognise the vital role that carers play, and our Bridgend Dementia Hub is dedicated to being a sanctuary of support, understanding, and connection for both carers and individuals living with dementia.

However, it is important to note that this vital service is not currently funded by any statutory sources. Our Bridgend Dementia Hub relies entirely on the generosity of the community, local businesses, and charitable donations. Without this essential support, we cannot continue providing these crucial services. Each year, our hub engages with over 1,200 individuals, offering guidance, emotional support, and practical help. Your support can ensure that we can continue making a difference.

A Special Thank You to Our Partners and Supporters

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners, whose collaboration and support make the Bridgend Dementia Hub possible:

Tanio:

For their partnership in delivering creative and therapeutic activities that inspire and uplift our community.

Cwmpas:

For their valuable support in providing innovative community-based initiatives that enhance well-being.

Art Therapy Students:

For their creativity, compassion, and dedication in delivering art therapy sessions that bring joy and connection to those we support.

Corporate Partners:

For their financial contributions, which help sustain our essential services and ensure that our hub remains accessible to all who need it.

The Community Fund: For their generous support, which helps us continue providing our wide range of activities and support services.

Together, your support enables us to maintain this vital community resource, ensuring that carers and individuals living with dementia never feel alone.

Why Dementia Action Week Matters

Dementia Action Week is a vital annual campaign that raises awareness of dementia, challenges misconceptions, and promotes better understanding of the condition. It is an opportunity to:

Raise Awareness

Educate the public about what dementia is, how it affects individuals and families, and how to support those living with it.

Challenge Stigma

Break down the stereotypes that surround dementia, reducing isolation for those affected.

Promote Support Services

Highlight the availability of local support, including our Bridgend Dementia Hub, ensuring that carers and individuals with dementia know where to turn for help.

Empower Carers:

Recognise the essential role that carers play and ensure they have the support, advice, and advocacy they need.

At MHM Wales, we actively support Dementia Action Week, using this time to share information, promote our services, and engage with the community.

The Benefits of Our Bridgend Dementia Hub

Our Bridgend Dementia Hub is more than just a physical space – it is a lifeline for carers and their loved ones, providing:

Connection:

A welcoming environment where carers and individuals with dementia can meet, share experiences, and support one another.

Emotional Support:

Access to peer support groups, therapeutic activities, and a compassionate team who understand the challenges of dementia care.

Practical Guidance:

Information sessions and personalised advice to help carers navigate the complexities of dementia support.

Mental and Physical Well-being

Creative and therapeutic activities designed to reduce stress, promote mental health, and support cognitive function.

Advocacy Services

Ensuring carers and those with dementia have a voice, understand their rights, and can access the support they deserve.

How Our Hub Aligns with Welsh Government Policies

Our work at the Bridgend Dementia Hub is closely aligned with key Welsh Government policies and strategies:

Dementia Action Plan for Wales: Our services support the plan’s objectives to improve access to support, raise awareness, and provide person-centred care.

A Healthier Wales: Our Plan for Health and Social Care: We focus on integrated, person-centred support, promoting mental well-being and community-based care.

Social Services and Well-being (Wales) Act 2014: Our advocacy services empower carers and individuals with dementia to make informed decisions, protecting their rights and well-being.

Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015: We prioritise social inclusion, emotional well-being, and long-term support for carers and their loved ones.

Our Services at Bridgend Dementia Hub

Peer Support for Carers

Regular peer support sessions provide a safe space for carers to share experiences, offer each other encouragement, and learn coping strategies.

Carer Advocacy Services

Our advocacy team helps carers access the support they need, understand their rights, and navigate complex care systems.

We offer Independent Professional Advocacy (IPA) and representation for carers in accessing services or making decisions, promoting informed choice and self-determination.

Therapeutic Activities

Creative sessions such as art, music, and storytelling to reduce stress and encourage positive engagement.

Gentle exercise classes, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques to promote physical and mental well-being.

Reminiscence therapy, where individuals with dementia and their carers can explore memories and connect emotionally.

Information and Guidance

Expert-led information sessions on understanding dementia, effective communication, legal rights, and accessing support services.

Personalised advice for carers, helping them navigate care pathways and make informed decisions.

Signposting to specialist services, including dementia-friendly social groups, respite care, and mental health support.

Regular Hub Activities

Our Bridgend Dementia Hub offers a diverse range of regular activities, ensuring there is something for everyone:

Peer Support Well-being Hubs: Regular gatherings that encourage sharing, support, and social connections.

Therapeutic Art Sessions: Creative activities designed to reduce stress and promote self-expression.

Well-being Walks: Gentle, guided walks in scenic areas, offering fresh air and a chance to socialise.

Music for the Mind: Uplifting sessions that use music to trigger positive memories and emotions.

Community Cafés: Relaxed spaces where carers and those with dementia can connect over refreshments.

Our Urgent Need for Support

Our Bridgend Dementia Hub is a vital service, but without dedicated funding, we rely on the generosity of the community and local businesses. Each year, we engage with over 1,200 individuals, providing them with essential support, but we cannot continue this work without your help.

Make a Donation: Every contribution helps us keep our hub running.

Partner with Us: Local businesses can support us through sponsorship or staff fundraising initiatives.

Volunteer: Offer your time to help facilitate activities and provide support.

Without your support, this essential service is at risk.

How to Access the Bridgend Dementia Hub

Location and Opening Hours: Weekly sessions and activities across multiple locations in Bridgend and surrounding areas.

Join Us and Make a Difference

At MHM Wales, we are committed to supporting carers and those living with dementia. Our Bridgend Dementia Hub is a place of hope, understanding, and community – a space where no one has to face dementia alone.

If you are a carer, we invite you to visit the hub, take part in our sessions, and experience the support of our compassionate team. If you know someone who may benefit, please share this information with them.