Help For South Cheshire Dementia Sufferers (From Crewe Guardian)

Help For South Cheshire Dementia Sufferers

11:19am Tuesday 9th March 2010 in

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A PIONEERING social network supporting people affected by dementia is to be launched in South Cheshire as a national pilot project.

A partnership led by Cheshire East Council was selected from 32 nationwide to receive a £136,000 Government grant to pilot the web-based resource, which will operate in a similar way to Facebook, Twitter and Bebo.

Users will be able to come together online to discuss the ways in which dementia affects their lives, share experiences and compare the resources, support and services available.

The authority is working with the Alzheimer’s Society, Age Concern Cheshire, Central and Eastern Cheshire Primary Care Trust and Opportunity Links to develop the resource, which will go live in the autumn.

It is aimed at people whose lives are affected by dementia in a variety of ways embracing those with a diagnosis, their family, friends and carers, as well as health professionals.

Councillor Roland Domleo said: “It is excellent news that Cheshire East will be the first in the country to benefit from this groundbreaking online resource.

“I am delighted that we can harness technology often associated with the young to provide a much needed support resource.

“This is especially significant given that older people have been proven to spend more time online than any other social group.”

Jill Walter, chief executive of Age Concern Cheshire, said: “Social media has so much potential to make a positive impact on peoples’ lives.”

Roger March, service manager for the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “This project should help avoid isolation and encourage the exchange of ideas amongst those affected by dementia, which could have a positive impact on their ability to live well with dementia.”

Mike O’Regan of the Central and Eastern Cheshire Primary Care Trust, added: “This project will provide intergenerational support to those living with dementia and their carers who will benefit greatly from effective peer support and shared expertise.”