Living Well | Summer 2022

© Brent Jones

ISSUE 4 | SUMMER 2022

Whats on in your town?

Local allotment update inside Corfe Mullen, Ferndown, West Moors, Wimborne Dementia Groups

Welcome

Welcome to the fourth edition of Living Well – Dementia Friendly Communities.

Each edition includes articles on local activities in Corfe Mullen, Ferndown, West Moors & Wimborne. We are also pleased to be able to add back in the ‘What’s on in the surrounding area’. If you know of or run a group that you would like added to these listings, please do get in touch.

Each issue aims to give an insight into dementia and offers guidance and signposting. However, this magazine is not just for those affected by dementia. We hope that this publication will help anyone who wishes to live well, stay active and support an inclusive community.

What’s inside?

Inside this summer issue, you will find articles dedicated to living well.

A piece about the impact of Music & Dementia, thanks to Colten Care.

Also, pages showing the wonderful allotments we are lucky to have across some of our local communities. Wimborne, Ferndown and Corfe Mullen.

We would love to hear from you!

If you wish to contribute to this publication, please contact via community@fcdouch.co.uk.

Contributions can include upcoming events, experiences, photographs, articles or submissions to the letters page. We will also be providing a question and answers page with an Admiral Nurse from Colten Care. So, if you have any questions, please do get in touch.

Thank you!

We would like to thank the charity Growing Compassionate Communities for offering sponsorship for this edition of our magazine, allowing us to grow the magazine in size to 32 pages – ensuring we can include as much information as possible to help you Live Well!

Thank you to everyone who allows this publication to be placed in their premises for distribution. You are helping us to build an inclusive and knowledgeable community.

Best Regards From the steering committee/publication partners of this magazine.

Contents

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Corfe Mullen Dementia Group

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Ferndown Dementia Group

11-12 14 What’s on in West Moors

Wimborne Dementia Group

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What’s on in Ferndown

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What’s on in Wimborne

18-21 22-23 30 Living Well Allotments

GCC memorial tree and plaque scheme

Important telephone numbers

Publication Partners: Emma Regan

Douch Family Funeral Directors / GCC Secretary

Michael Deane

Chair of Ferndown Dementia Friendly Town

Peter Jones

Chair of Corfe Mullen Dementia Friendly Community / Growing Compassionate Communities Charity

Sue Tipping

Chair of Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community

Lynne Morris

Chair of West Moors Dementia Action Group

Contributors: Admiral Nurses

Colten Care 01202 651800 kaygibson@coltencare. co.uk

DESIGN, PRODUCTION AND SALES Production Manager Ben Pulford

ben@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

Lead Designer Louis Pulford

louis@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

Media Sales

Simon Thornton

simon@dorsetview.co.uk

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Dear friends, Since the launch and creation of Corfe Mullen Dementia Friendly community we have come a long way since our first meeting some 7 years ago when we began to explore and produce action plans in relation to how we might grow Corfe Mullen as a dementia friendly community.

It has been a long a journey, and often challenging, but these were our first steps towards that goal.

To that end I would like to appeal for your help in making this happen. If you feel you can contribute to this process, please do get back to me. If you would like to train as a dementia friend, this simply requires you to attend a 1-hour awareness session, again please make contact with me.

As a community we seek to journey with both the carer and the person with dementia, allowing them to inform and shape a dementia friendly community, a community that is safe and non–stigmatising.

Aims

• To raise awareness and understanding of Dementia in the Corfe Mullen Community.

• To create a safe and non stigmatising community where people with dementia can live well.

• To create an environment where the carer and or person with dementia can seek appropriate help and support.

Achievements The main achievements so far: • The launch of a community allotment. Open to all groups of people.

• Carer’s support group that meets on the 2nd Friday of the month 10-12noon • The creation of a Carpet bowls group that meets on the 4th Friday of the month, 2.30-4pm.

• We are planning to create a local bereavement support group.

CMDFC subscribes to the Growing Compassionate Communities aim of growing compassionate inclusive communities.

We are always looking for helpers to support these groups. If you’re interested please contact me: peterjonescipn @outlook.com

What’s on in Corfe Mullen We are Crafty Befriending Group

A friendly social group for everyone who loves to knit & natter, craft or colour.

Held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month from 10am-12noon.

St Nicholas Church, Corfe Mullen.

Supported and run by The Douch Family Funeral Directors

Carers Support Group

Run by Growing Compassionate Communities.

An opportunity to meet other carers and share experiences and provide mutual support.

2nd Friday of every month, 10am – 12noon.

Corfe Mullen library.

Community allotment

Run by Growing Compassionate Communities.

Open to all groups by arrangement. Located at Pardys Hill Allotment site,Corfe Mullen.

Contact Peter Jones on 07715 940548 for further information.

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Douch Family Bereavement Support Group

Are you living with bereavement or struggling to move forwards due to a loss? If so, you are invited to join our support group open to the community who feel they could benefit from meeting others and seeking professional, friendly support.

1st Thursday of each month, 10.30am – 12noon.

Contact Lesley Shand Funeral Service on 01202 658833 to book your place.

Wellbeing Drop-In. Run by Growing Compassionate Communities. An opportunity to ask questions, get advice and support as well as signposting and information available.

No need to book. Just turn up. You will be made very welcome.

4th Friday of every month from 10 am to 12 noon. Corfe Mullen Village Hall.

SING at St Nic’s

Dementia-friendly singing for fun. Open to all regardless of ability. £3 per session including refreshments.

10-45am – 11.45am in St Nicholas Church, Wareham Road, Corfe Mullen.

Tuesday 24th May, 28th June and 26th July.

For more details, contact the parish office or just turn up on the day.

Ferndown Dementia Friendly Town Steering Group Spring has arrived and summer is just around the corner, so much has happened in the world since our last publication and our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the Ukraine. Whilst we are all trying to come to terms with all that is happening, imagine how impossible it must be for someone diagnosed with dementia.

Dementia is a disease that can affect anyone at any time, young and old.

The very minimum requirement

of the steering group, now part of the larger Growing Compassionate Community Charity, is to understand what it is like to live with dementia not only for those diagnosed with it, but for their carers too, and to try and help make life a little bit easier, or the services available more accessible.

It is essential to find out more from those with dementia, and their families and carers, about the experiences of living

in our community, where they feel supported and where improvements can be made. This feedback can and will direct the actions of the steering group.

Please feel free to email me on michaeldeane1@hotmail.com with any comments, concerns or questions you may have.

Michael Deane – Chairman Ferndown Dementia Friendly Town

Pastoral Care at St Mary’s Church, Ferndown What is Pastoral Care?

Pastoral Care is walking with people on their life journey both in the church and in the community.

We meet people where they are and listen, guide, nurture, serve and spiritually care for them without being judgmental in all stages and aspects of their lives in these changing and challenging times.

If you wish to know more please contact Mrs. Lynne Rees on 01202 871936 or l.rees219@ btinternet,com or via the Church on 01202 897087 office@stmarys-ferndown.org.uk

Ferndown Community Connectors

Ferndown Community Connectors is a group of organisations that have come together. Prama life, St Mary’s Church Ferndown, NHS, Dorset Council, AE Jolliffe & Son Funeral Directors and Cindy Weller Accredited Counsellor.

We use our expertise to help people connect back into the community through activities, groups, and clubs.

For more information or an informal friendly chat please call Mrs. Lynne Rees on 01202 871936 or 07880 354240.

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What’s on in Ferndown DOUCH FAMILY BEREAVEMENT GROUP

Are you living with bereavement or struggling to move forwards due to a loss? If so, you are invited to join our support group open to the community who feel they could benefit from meeting others and seeking professional, friendly support. Tea/coffee and biscuits are supplied and a listening ear and help when and where needed. Cindy Weller is a local resident of Ferndown who will run our monthly support group.

She can also offer one to one counselling if required.

Cindy is a qualified accredited counsellor. A member of The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) and a member of the National Counselling Society (NCS). Being held at the Royal British Legion on the 1st Thursday of each month from 11am - 12.30pm. Plenty of onsite parking available.

For more information or to let us know you are coming along please contact 01202 872050 (please note 10 places per session).

This group has been set up by the Douch Family of which A E Jolliffe & Son are the supporting branch for Ferndown

Eat & Meet Lunch Time Club – an Eat & Meet

Lunch & Quiz once a month to encourage people who are on their own for whatever reason (widow, widowers/carers etc) to come together in a friendly atmosphere. Lunch will be provided from only £5 for main course, £2.50 for dessert. Members will be offered a £3 subsidy thanks to the Douch Family Funeral Directors Ferndown branch – A E Jolliffe & Son. Non-members are also very welcome. This takes place on the first Thursday of each month at 12.30pm. To book a place please phone on 01202 877706 or email poppyclub@rblferndown.org.

Musical Cake Concert

Following the success of previous years we are committed to offering a musical cake concert in 2022, in partnership with other Growing Compassionate Communities Dementia groups.

Please drop by regularly to our facebook page: @Ferndowndementiafriendlytown for updates.

Ferndown Library

Knit ’n’ Natter is 10 -11:30am, every 2nd Tuesday of the month and can be booked on 01202 874542.

Bits ’n’ bytes – a digital advice group: 2:30-

4:00pm, every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month and is a drop in session.

1:1 sessions with the digital champion is a bookable 45 mins slot running from 9:30 – 11:30am. This is booked on 01202 874542.

Or people can just pop into the library and book.

Memory Lane

Memory Lane groups are for people with dementia or memory loss (no need for a diagnosis of dementia) - everyone is welcome to attend. These group sessions include games, quizzes, reminiscing, and refreshments in a warm and friendly environment. To book your space call Allen Kirkbride on 07549 018942.

Tuesday & Wednesday from 2 pm – 4 pm St Mary’s Church, Church Road, Ferndown, BH22 9EU

Ferndown Carers

Are you caring for a relative or friend? Would you like to meet people in a similar situation? Would you like to gather information and advice? Would you like some time for yourself? Come along to Ferndown Carers Support Group. To book your place phone Carol Davies on 07736 133445.

1st Thursday of the month from 10.30 am – 12 noon St Mary’s Church, Church Road, Ferndown, BH22 9EU

Open Doors

Join us for our weekly coffee morning and informal service. Starting with tea/coffee and biscuits then scone with butter & jam. Finishing with an informal service with a short talk, hymn, and prayers.

No booking is required.

Cost £2 per session.

Mondays from 10.30 am – 12 noon St Mary’s Church, Ferndown – main hall Dementia Friendly Communities

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West Moors Dementia Action Group We hope you have enjoyed the return of the Living Well magazine and managed to access some of the activities and events in the ‘What’s on’ pages in the various areas. Do pass on a copy of the magazine to others. Let’s share the good news and support one another.

I’m excited that so much is now happening again, albeit with occasional hick-ups, as covid hasn’t completely receded. Our aim continues to be: making West Moors a dementia friendly town and we hope that many businesses and organisations, as well as individuals will want to share our vision and get involved.

I’d like to share with you some interesting post I’ve recently received. In an email from Alzheimer’s Research UK they were offering an information folder ‘Planning for the Future’ which I thought might be helpful to some of the folk I have contact with. Having placed my order this duly arrived and the four

information documents within the folder were very easy to read and follow, as well as being very informative. It covers writing of a will, lasting power of attorney, planning future care and inheritance tax. Well worth getting hold of one.

We hope you are managing to get out more and enjoy some fresh air, perhaps on a gentle walk, now that the weather is beginning to warm up a little and participate in some of the activities and interests listed. Take care and look after yourselves.

Lynne (Chair of WM Dementia Action Group)

Health walkers at Avon Heath

What's on in West Moors

In West Moors there are lots of great activities to stimulate the body, mind and spirit.

Community Sing-a-long

A fun and very enjoyable morning. All are welcome.

1st and 3rd Thursday each month at St Martins URC, Station Road (corner of Moorlands Road) BH22 0JW. 10.30 a.m.

Contact : Maggie - 07837 691496

Knit and Natter

A friendly group enjoying time together knitting and chatting.

At the library every Monday & Tuesday. Booking essential.

2.15 p.m. – 3.30 p.m.

Contact : WM Library - 01202 873272.

Adult Colouring

Lovely way to relax, enjoy some colouring and a coffee, and meet others. Booking essential.

At the library on 2nd and 4th Thursday each month 10.30 a.m. – 12 noon Contact : WM Library - 01202 873272

Forget-me-nots: Growing Together.

A fun morning, good company, fresh air, some gardening and refreshments.

Fortnightly on Tuesdays at Sturts Farm, West Moors Road.

10.30 a.m. – 12 noon.

Sturts is a working farm and some paths are a little uneven. Reasonable balance and walking ability is needed. Ideal for those with early onset dementia, carers, anyone isolated or lonely, indeed anyone who would like to be part of this friendly gardening group.

Contact : Tessa - 01202 873201 or email: tessa.masterman@outlook.com

Community Lunch and Friendship Club Advanced booking needed, ample parking, transport also available.

Weekly on Wednesdays at St Anthony's RC Church Hall, Pinehurst Road (corner Woolslope Rd). 11.15 a.m. - 3.30 p.m.

Contact : Sylvia - 01202 892902

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One off and occasional events Dementia Awareness sessions:

CONCERTS: St Mary’s Parish Church also offers a wide variety

Forget-me-not Service

Dementia Friends Awareness sessions : The first Tuesday

Dementia Friends Awareness sessions can be arranged specifically for your business, club, church or organisation. It takes approx 45 minutes and gives some basic information about dementia, equipping us to better understand and support others. If you would like to book a date for your organisation Contact:- Revd Lynne - 01425 477470 or Angela, WM Library 01202 873272 Relaxed, friendly, short service followed by tea & cake in the hall, held quarterly at St Mary's, the Parish Church of West Moors, Station Road (corner of The Avenue), BH22 0JF. Dementia Friendly. Starting again soon. Everyone is welcome.

18th September 2022 at 3pm.

Contact: Revd Lynne - 01425 477470

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of charity concerts with choirs and musicians through the year.

They are held in either the Memorial Hall or St Mary's Church.

Tickets only £10 each for a great evening out. Everyone in the community is welcome. Look out for details on posters throughout the village. 30th July The Song Birds, with a varied and entertaining programme of well known ballads, jazz, pop, show music and classical. Tickets available from Dixon Kelly Estate Agent or Contact : Chris 01202 890098.

every month 2 - 3.30 pm held at Moors Manor Care Home, Ringwood Road, close to St Leonards Hospital. Everyone is welcome but places are limited so -Contact : Michelle Venn on 01202 863610 to book your place.

OPEN GARDENS in West Moors. 19th June, £6 to all listed gardens when paying for the passport programme. Look out for more details nearer the time. Contact: Chris 01202 890098

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WIMBORNE DEMENTIA FRIENDLY COMMUNITY Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community (WDFC) was founded in 2013 with the aim of raising awareness of dementia across the town, and to ensure that the voices of people with dementia, their carers and families are heard.

One of the first actions taken by WDFC was to visit every retail outlet in the town with an information pack to help their business become dementia friendly. To date 33 businesses have signed up as dementia friends, and drawn up action plans which include dementia friends awarenessraising sessions for their staff. A WDFC Steering Group member visits any new business opening the town with an information pack.

Local churches in Wimborne have achieved Dementia Friendly Church status. With the help of Faithworks Wessex (now with PramaLife), these churches carried out an audit of their buildings so that they could identify areas which would improve access for people with dementia. Their resulting action plans included dementia friends sessions to raise awareness amongst clergy and congregations.

WDFC supports three flagship projects: firstly the Step Outside gardening group at the Kingston Lacy allotments. WDFC funds 14

Dementia Friendly Communities

an experienced facilitator which enables the group to meet twice monthly. The second project is Jolly Days, which are an opportunity to meet people and join in activities, such as music, art and crafts in a safe and friendly environment. The third major initiative was to raise funds for the purchase of a Magic Table which offers a series of interactive light

games for people with mid- to late-stage dementia. The Magic Table is based at Streets Meadow care home, but managed by PramaLife, and is available for hire by community groups.

We organised a successful BSO Cake Concert, and, along with other local Dementia friendly Communities, we are hoping to arrange another in 2022.

What's on in Wimborne STEP OUTSIDE allotment gardening group at Kingston Lacy Allotments, BH21 4EG. 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month 2pm – 4pm, Contact Sarah Rampton on 07884 333117 or sarah@ injollygoodcompany.com

JOLLY DAYS at WIMBORNE St GILES.

COLEHILL COMMUNITY CAFE St Michael’s Church Centre, Colehill Lane, Wimborne BH21 7AB. Coffee and cake from 11am and light lunches served Wednesdays from 12noon – 1.30pm Contact St Michael’s Church office 01202 841677 stmparishoffice@gmail.com

JOLLY DAYS are an opportunity to meet people and join in activities such as music, art and crafts.

Refreshments included. First and third Mondays of the month at Wimborne St Giles Village Hall BH21 5LX 12 noon – 4pm.

METHODIST CHURCH Coffee Lounge - 4A

JOLLY DAYS at WIMBORNE.

Activities offered by Brendoncare

1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month in Museum of East Dorset, 23 – 29 High Street, Wimborne, BH21 1HR. 2pm4pm. There is a voluntary contribution to cover the cost of refreshments and materials. Pre –booking essential, contact Sarah Rampton on 07884333117 or email sarah@injollygoodcompany.com

CRAFT and CHAT AFTERNOON is a chance

to meet people, be inspired to try a different craft and have a good natter. Museum of East Dorset, 23 – 29 High Street, Wimborne BH21 1HR on the 3rd Monday of the month, 2.30pm – 4pm. To book visit the website: museumofeastdorset.co.uk or call 01202 886116

MEMORY LANE social time, activities, advice

and support at Howell House, Middlehill Road Colehill ,Wimborne BH21 2EY. Thursdays from 2pm – 4pm, £2 per session. Contact Carol Davies at PramaLife on 01202 207300 or 07736 133445

STRICTLY COME TEA DANCING

at the Allendale Centre Wimborne, 1st Wednesday of the month, 2.30pm Dancing to live music provided by the Soggy Biscuit Dance Band, who play Dance Tempo, Ballroom, Latin and ‘Oldtime’ numbers. Entrance fee: £7.50 per person / £5.00 per person for non-dancers / £2.50 per person for groups of 4+ from lunch clubs or care homes.

FILM CLUB the best of the old classic

films, at the Allendale Centre, Hanham Road, Wimborne BH21 1AS This is planned to restart in January 2022. Contact 01202 887247 or visit the website: the Allendale.org

Lunches and light refreshments.

LUNCH AND CHAT Church House

Lounge, High Street Wimborne BH21 1HT Fridays 12noon – 1.30pm Contact Anne Pollard k.anne.pollard@btinternet.com

King Street, Wimborne BH21 1DY, Monday – Friday 10am – 12noon. Contact 01202 884474

WIMBORNE KURLING at the Community

Learning and Resource Centre, 41 -44 King Street, Wimborne BH21 1EB Wednesdays 10.30 – 12noon. Contact Brendoncare on 01962 852133

Carer support OAKLEY FRIENDS a ten week free information

course for those caring for someone with dementia, twice yearly starting April and September. Also meetings for friendly support last Wednesday of each month 10.30am – 12noon. Contact The Leonardo Trust on 01202 698325 or info@leonardotrust.org.

WIMBORNE CARERS’ GROUP monthly support

group, informal chat over refreshments and regular guest speakers. In partnership with Prama & St John’s Church Hall, Leigh Road Wimborne BH21 1AE on the 3rd Friday of the month, 10.30 – 12.00. Further information by phoning 07736 133445 or email to carol.davies@prama.co.uk

Activity offered by Age UK COGNITIVE STIMULATION THERAPY is a

programme of themed activities carried out over a 14 week period in small groups. It is a brief treatment for people diagnosed with mild to moderate dementia, which is proven to initially slow its progress and improve quality of life. Details can be found at www.ageuk.org.uk/bournemouthpooleeastdorset At present it takes place at British Legion, West Borough, Wimborne BH21 1LT on Wednesdays 1.30 – 3.30pm. There is a “Maintaining” course on Tuesdays 1.30 – 3.30pm at the same venue.

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PLEASE JOIN US THIS YEAR AT BROADSTAONE WAR MEMORIAL HALL 4TH FRIDAY EACH MONTH, 2-4PM

Tudor road, Broadstone BH18 8AW

FRIDAY 27 MAY, 24 JUNE, 22 JULY, *19 AUG, 23 SEPT, 28 OCT, *29 DEC No event in November *Events held in August & December are not on the 4th Friday 16

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Living Well Allotments We are working with 3 local allotments – Corfe Mullen, Ferndown and Wimborne.

These photos represent some of the work we carry out. Please do contact your local Dementia Friends group for further information about how you can get involved

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Ferndown Dementia Friendly Town allotment Did you know there is a secure, friendly allotment at Longham just waiting for you?

So much more than growing plants there is the joy of an allotment.

Allotments deliver more than just a physical harvest of flowers, fruit or vegetables.

They create true communities.

Allotments can enhance the health and wellbeing of friends and community by sharing special moments as you tend the plants. It is a place one can escape a busy life, a place of true peace where a mix of people who perhaps ordinarily wouldn’t meet and mix together can share a common bond in gardening.

To enter you will need a gate code that will be made available on the day and plenty of vehicle parking for your convenience.

A short distance on wheel chair friendly paths will lead you to the allotment made of two plots joined together. One has raised beds, seating and a summer house for that social gathering whilst the other is cleared to grow plants of all natures such as fruit and vegetables.

Last season there was a great crop of carrots, parsnips, butternut squash, broad beans, green beans, spinach and shallots for those who enjoy pickled onions.

Please contact Ferndown Dementia Friendly Town if you have any question or for more information.

Spring is just around the corner.

Re-Launch of our allotments 10th June.

New toilet facilities.

FDFT allotment available for booking.

For more details contact Michael Deane on 07900 898085 or email contact@fdft.org.uk

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iti

Fun d n es a

ctiv A t men t o l l lA

Wel g n i Liv

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What does it mean to live well? If we have learnt anything over the last couple of years, it is that most people, whether they have dementia or not, really need contact with others and to be involved in meaningful activity.

In Jolly Good Company was set up in January 2019 to provide enjoyable purposeful activities and social interaction for older people and to help reduce the health problems associated with loneliness and isolation. Little did we know at the time how needed our services would be.

We are a dementia friendly organisation, but open to all and we love the mix of different people who attend our groups.

During lockdown, we set up ‘The Jolly Postal Service’ connecting people across the generations who were sending cheery letters and artwork back and forth to each other.

Comfort was also provided by our ‘Lockdown Lunches’ delivery service, which saw delicious home cooked and healthy meals delivered free to local people. This project was run in cooperation with The Friendly Food Club, like us, they are a not for profit organisation. Lunch deliveries were great fun and often involved an all important friendly chat on the doorstep. People who were isolating at home also took part in our ‘Jolly Good Yarn’ project making beautiful decorative items which were placed in trees and hedges to cheer up the whole village. ‘Jolly TV’ also played its part in keeping people active and engaged who were unable to attend their usual day centre sessions.

We are proud to say that work at our ‘Step Outside’ Kingston Lacy allotments continued all through lockdown and provided a much needed breath of fresh air, Covid safe contact with others and vital support for people at a very difficult time.

In June 2021, we were very happy to reopen our ‘Jolly Days’, our activity groups at various locations around Dorset.

Each one has its own distinctive character - according to the likes and interests of our guests. We have a varied mix of arts and crafts, live music and singing, walks, quizzes and interesting visits from storytellers or yoga teachers. There is even a splendid lunch to be enjoyed, cooked by The Friendly Food Club and savoured by our lucky guests at our Jolly Days in Wimborne St Giles.

For more information about what we do and where and how to join us - please visit our website. You can also see all the past episodes of Jolly TV under the ‘Jolly Times’ button. www.injollygoodcompany.com or call Sarah on 07884 333117 Our ‘Step Outside’ allotment group at Kingston Lacy is closed at the moment for some much needed maintenance, but will be opening from March 2022 onwards. We are also hoping (if funding can be found) that we will be opening a new group in the heart of Wimborne. This will be ‘Jolly Days at the Museum’ based at The Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne. Please keep in touch for the latest news via Facebook, Instagram or our monthly online newsletter.

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GCC memorial tree and plaque scheme The Growing Compassionate Communities charity has been engaging and working with Town councils across Dorset to explore this scheme of planting a memorial tree and plaque as a tribute to those we have lost and to those that have been left behind during this Covid -19 pandemic.

We have been successful in our application to the Woodland Trust who are supporting this memorial scheme providing 15 saplings. This space created by these trees and plaques will be a staging point where all our grief and loss can be acknowledged and recognised. It will be providing an opportunity where families and friends can visit simply to say goodbye and a space to remember those, we know that have passed and a place to reflect.

Corfe Mullen Tree

A poem to ponder on:

Remember me when I am gone away, Gone far away into the silent land; When you can no more hold me by the hand, Nor I half a to go yet turning stay.

Remember me when no more day by day You tell me of our future that you plann’d: Only remember me; you understand It will be late to counsel then or pray.

Yet if you should forget me for a while And afterwards remember, do not grieve: For if the darkness and corruption leave A vestige of the thoughts that once I had, Better by far you should forget and smile Than that you should remember and be sad.

By Christina Rossetti Being able to say goodbye is part of the journey of grief. With every goodbye there is a hello. Hello to new beginnings and a fresh start. But let’s not forget those we have lost nor those that are left behind.

Ferndown RBL Tree 22

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Corfe Mullen Tree

Corfe Mullen Tree

Corfe Mullen Tree

Chair Peter Jones

Wimborne Tree

Wimborne Tree

Wimborne Tree

Have you ever wondered “Who Cares”? This was the title of our most recent Growing Compassionate Communities publication. This can be read in two ways, firstly as a challenge and secondly as a simple question.

Who Cares? A question to you.

The act of Caring is something we can all take for granted. This can leave many carers young and old finding themselves on the margins of our communities. Being a carer can be both be very isolating and lonely experience.

However, Loneliness can be a place we can all find ourselves. It can be a very painful place to be in. It can often feel like a prison cell and incredibly challenging to extricate yourself from. A sense of feeling trapped and powerless are common feelings.

Loneliness is perhaps the one of the most significant single challenges to our communities at this moment in time and a challenge we need to meet head on.

Loneliness is very much a key priority of Growing Compassionate Communities.

So, what may be the root causes of loneliness and associated mental health issues?

Challenging life circumstances like loss of a loved one, and chronic or catastrophic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, mental illness or cancer can lead to loneliness and isolation.

Loneliness can have negative effects on mental health, worsening depression, anxiety, mood disorders, cognitive decline, and on physical health.

Loneliness does not discriminate, it can affect all ages including adolescents, young adults and older adults seem to be particularly at risk as marked by growing incidence of depression, substance abuse, and suicide.

We as a charity are planning to be proactive in addressing the challenges that of loneliness and isolation can pose to our communities.

A quote to ponder:

"The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved" Wimborne Tree

Mother Teresa Dementia Friendly Communities

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What’s on in the Surrounding Area Stepping Out Community Tea Dance

Winton Friendship Group

A community tea dance where all are welcome.

Including those living with memory loss and their carers.

To book your place and more information phone Lesley Shand on 01202 658833.

This is in partnership with Lesley Shand Funeral Service, The Leonardo Trust and Broadstone Stepping Stones. £5 per ticket. FREE entry for carers sponsored by the Leonardo Trust.

Held at the War Memorial Hall, Tudor Road, Broadstone, BH18 8AW.

There are always activities on offer at this lovely variety club, from team quizzes, bingo and beetle drive, to dancing, singing and local speakers. We truly offer something for everyone, including a very warm welcome and the chance to make new friends

Carers drop in advice surgery Run by Growing Compassionate Communities.

Open to all older people wanting information, support signposting or just want to pop in for a chat.

3rd Thursday of every month, 10am – 12noon. Broadstone Library.

No two sessions are the same when you take part in this fun, accessible past-time! Kurling is an inclusive sport which can be played by people of all ages and abilities. As long as you enjoy making friends and having a good catch-up afterwards over a brew, you would be very welcome

From Brendoncare People interested should call our club number

Blandford Methodist Church The Close, Blandford, DT11 7HA

on 01962 852133 or visit our website for more information www.brendoncare.org.uk

Bearwood Kurling Club

No two sessions are the same when you take part in this fun, accessible past-time! Kurling is an inclusive sport which can be played by people of all ages and abilities. As long as you enjoy making friends and having a good catch-up afterwards over a brew, you would be very welcome Monday 1.30pm – 3pm

Monday 2pm to 3.30pm St Luke’s Church hall, St Luke’s Church, St Luke’s Road, Winton BH3 7LR

Blandford Kurling Club

Wednesday 10.30 to 12 noon

Moordown Kurling Club

Would you like to do something more physical? This fun and friendly competition could be the club for you. No two sessions are the same when you take part in this fun, accessible past-time! Kurling is an inclusive sport which can be played by people of all ages and abilities. After the fun catch up with friends over refreshments Saturdays 10.30-12 noon from 27th November 2021

Bearwood Community Centre King Johns Avenue,Bournemouth, Dorset BH11 9TF

Moordown Community Centre 21 Coronation Avenue BH9 1TW

Westbourne Pub Club

Westbourne Kurling Club

It’s easy to make new friendships at this Dorsetbased social club. A warm welcome is always on offer, along with plenty of tea and coffee, to everyone within the Westbourne Community.

Our volunteers provide optional games and quizzes where fun is always on the agenda Thursday 10.30 am – 12pm The Westbourne Pub,45 Poole Road,Bournemouth Dorset BH4 9DN 24

Dementia Friendly Communities

Join us for a game of Kurling, fun and friendly this game can be played by all. Afterwards enjoy a catch up with friends over refreshments.

Saturday 1.30 – 3pm from January 2022 West Cliff Baptist Church Poole Road Westbourne Bournemouth BH4 9DN

Get Together Southbourne

There are always activities on offer at this lovely variety club, from team quizzes, bingo and beetle drive, to dancing, singing and local speakers. We truly offer something for everyone, including a very warm welcome and the chance to make new friends over refreshments.

Thursday From 1.30pm to 3pm from 9th December Immanuel Church Hall, 120 Southbourne Road, Southbourne, BH6 3QJ.

From Prama

Carers group - St Leonards.

Held at Moors Manor Care Home, 243 Ringwood Road, St Leonards, BH24 2DW 3rd Tuesday of each month from 10.30 am -12 noon.

01425 383926

Memory Lane Group

The Old Rope Walk, Blandford Rd, Hamworthy, BH15 4AU Mondays Weekly £2 2 - 4pm Margaret Reeks- 07999 402155

Sporting Memories Group

The Old Rope Walk, Blandford Rd, Hamworthy, BH15 4AU Alternate Mondays £1 11am1pm Bridget - 01202 207310

Memory Lane Group

The Beacon Church, Mitchell Road, Canford Heath, BH17 8UE Wednesday Weekly £2 2 - 4pm Sue 07999 402162

Carers Support Group

St Dunstan’s Church Lounge, Poole Road, Upton, BH16 5JA Monthly - 4th Weds free 2 3.30pm Bridget - 01202 207310 Ian Swinden

Musical Memories

Sherrin Close, Oakdale, Poole BH15 3DZ (Will be changing to a Thursday from 7th April 2022 Thursday Weekly £2 2 – 4pm Bridget - 01202 207310

Memory Lane Group

Alderney Community Centre, 287 Herbert Avenue, BH12 4HT Friday Weekly £2 2 - 4pm Diane – 07999 402161

Memory Lane Group

Museum Memories Group The Old Rope Walk, Blandford Rd, Hamworthy BH15 4AU Friday Weekly £2 2-4pm Sue Parsons 07999 402162

Sporting Memories Group

Alderney Community Centre, 287 Herbert Ave, BH12 4HT Alternate Saturdays free 10 - 12 noon Bridget 01202 207310 Judith Bacon 07538 502740

Memory Lane Immanuel

Tuesday Weekly (not August) 2pm. £2.50, carers free Sally Nevitt 01202 419506

Carers Support Group Immanuel

Monthly – 1st Thursday 2pm Free Sally Nevitt 01202 419506

Memory Lane

St Marks, Talbot Village 3rd Tuesday 2pm-4pm Sally Nevitt 01202 419506

Memory Lane

Life Centre, Wimborne Road, BH9 2AU Wednesday Weekly 2pm-4pm £2 Tess 07912 272077

Memory Lane

Kinson Community Centre, BH10 7LH Thursday Weekly 2 - 4pm £2 Tess – 07912 272077

Memory Lane @ Pokesdown St James Church Annexe, Pokesdown, BH7 6DW Monthly – 1st Saturday 10:30 – 12pm donations Ruth Crosland – 01202 474067

Walking Would you be interested in a gentle walk with places to pause along the way?

We are looking at possibly introducing some safe walks near Gullivers Farm Shop, West Moors and could enjoy a cuppa together after the walk. If you are interested please get in touch.

Contact : Alex - 01202 894913

NEW at Avon Heath Country Park Weekly Health Walks now take place every Tuesday afternoon at 2pm, are free and run by trained leaders. A half hour gentle walk, and in addition a NEW one hour walk starting in May for those who would like to increase their pace and distance a little.

Sensory Memory Walks

Perhaps you or someone you care for would enjoy the therapeutic benefits of being outdoors in a safe green space. Studies show that it can help improve memory, attention, creativity and sleep, reduce anxiety and increase positive social interactions.

Rangers will be running monthly Sensory Memory Walks at the park. The gentle stroll (max. ¾ mile) will provide an opportunity to be immersed in the wonders of the heathland through all the senses. Then refreshments.

If interested join us on the first Tuesday of every month (starting 5 April) at 11am-12noon. £3.50 per person. Booking essential Contact : Avon Heath Country Park - 01425 478082

Both walks begin from the Visitor Centre.

Walking is recognised as an ideal form of exercise for all ages and fitness levels who want to be more active. It can improve your immune system, reduce blood pressure and anxiety and improve mood. This is all being reflected locally by health professionals prescribing outdoor exercise through Active4Health.

Come and join us. Give it a try. If this is your first time, or for more information: Contact: Avon Heath Country Park 01425 478082.

Dementia Friendly Communities

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BSO Cake Concert – St Mary’s Church, Ferndown

Music & Dementia Fiona Pritchard, Music and Arts Partner, Colten Care Empirical evidence suggests that music has a positive effect on well-being and emotions. As a familiar noise, it may facilitate pleasant memories, enhancing feelings of wellbeing. The reason music has a positive effect on our well-being and emotions is because it engages different areas of the brain simultaneously.

The change in these areas can affect our emotions and motivation and therefore help to regulate our mood and increase socialisation. Music is accessible to everyone because it is non-verbal. It is a common language and enables shared appreciation and enjoyment of the moment. This is why music is accessible for people at every stage of their dementia.

We grow more aware and appreciate music over many years 28

Dementia Friendly Communities

without really having to try which means that it comes a familiar noise and we begin to establish ‘favorite’s’ or ‘preferences’ over this long period of time. In this way for a person with dementia familiar music can be a landmark to a life story event that will awaken a memory and trigger a response and it maintains the links between music, the person’s identity and their life events.

This suggests that preferences are preserved throughout the process of dementia.

It can also be the characteristic of music that stimulates an instinctive or subconscious physical response such as tapping a foot or fingers on a knee. The way that music can encourage movement is a physical benefit. The psychological benefits may be

that people feel less anxious and more relaxed. The opportunity for social interaction through space sharing and engaging with another person or group can lead to relationship building.

Singing is one of the easiest ways sharing a musical experience with a person living with dementia. Singing increases our heart rate and this releases endorphins that give us that feel good feeling. This helps suppress negative emotions and can even reduce levels of pain. Singing together is about making a unified sound and there is something very uplifting about singing alongside others. But above all sharing music and singing together is fun and this level of engagement and enjoyment has the potential to have a longterm effect on our wellbeing.

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Important telephone contacts Help & Support lines Age UK

0800 678 1174

Alzheimer’s Society Carers Support Dorset

www.ageuk.org.uk www.alzheimers.org.uk

0800 368 8349

Crane Valley Network Social Prescribers

carersupportdorset.co.uk admin@carersupportdorset.co.uk @castlemansocialprescribers

Crisp

01202 128787

crispweb.org carersupport@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

Dorset Mind

01202 551660

contact@dorsetmind.uk www.dorsetmind.uk

Dorset Open Door ‘Supporting Bereavement Together’

01305 361 361

dhc.dorsetopendoor@nhs.net

East Dorset Citizens Advice

0344 2451291

eastdorsetca.com

Help and Care

0300 111 3303

contact@helpandcare.org.uk www.helpandcare.org.uk

The Leonardo Trust – Charity No: 1086045

01202 698325

info@leonardotrust.org www.leonardotrust.org

Livewell Dorset

www.livewelldorset.co.uk

Memory Support & Advisory Service

0300 1231916

National Dementia Helpline

0300 2221122

NHS Helpline (Covid advice)

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NHS Helpline (Health advice)

111

dorset@alzheimers.org.uk

Community Contacts Corfe Mullen Dementia Friendly Community

07715 940548

East Dorset Good Neighbours

01202 804003

Ferndown Community Connectors

01202 871936 07880 354240

Ferndown Dementia Friendly Community

Peter Jones

Lynne Rees @Ferndowndementiafriendlytown

Growing Compassionate Communities

07715 940548

www.growingcompassion.org.uk peterjonescipn@outlook.com

Oakley Friends – Carer Support / Leonardo Trust. Charity No: 1086045

01202 698325

www.oakleyfriends.co.uk info@leonardotrust.org

West Moors Carers Group - Alison

01202 865800

West Moors Dementia Action Group

01425 477470

West Moors Library

01202 873272

Wimborne Dementia Friendly Community

Lynne Morris

wimbornedfc@gmail.com

Transport Dial a ride Wimborne Wimborne Neighbour Car 30

Dementia Friendly Communities

darwimborne.ismysite.co.uk

07912 273722