Wetherby memory cafe celebrates three years of supporting people with dementia and their carers

Wetherby in Support of the Elderly’s (WiSE) Memory Cafe has already expanded since its launch to meet local demand – plus the Forget Me Not cafe - a monthly session to offer respite for carers, has been added.

Now, the charity behind the cafe - which was visited more than 800 times last year - say they expect even more people through its doors this year, with local demand for dementia services only increasing.

Emma Collier, Dementia Lead at Wetherby in Support of the Elderly (WiSE), said: “Our Memory Cafe is now a vital part Wetherby’s dementia services and we are proud to meet this important three-year milestone.

“People who attend the cafe say it is a lifeline - providing a few hours respite for our carers and enhancing the quality of life for those living with dementia.

“We know our attendees very well and have been able to integrate some of them into other WiSE activities and events.

“This included involving them in an afternoon out at Wetherby Races in the VIP area.

"Our social group ‘Silver Social’ is another popular event.”

Sessions are facilitated by trained staff alongside WiSE volunteers.

Up to 40 people attend each event, incorporating arts and crafts, board games and musical entertainment in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Support is also offered to carers to help them in their challenging roles.

Funding for the Memory Cafe has come from multiple sources, including the National Lottery Awards For All and McCarthy Stone Foundation.

The Memory Cafe meets twice a month on Wednesdays, from 1.30pm till 3.30pm, at St James’ Church in Wetherby.

Due to high demand for the service, attendance for the Memory Cafe is by referral only.

The Forget Me Not cafe – which takes place on the first Monday of the month - is currently open to existing Memory Cafe clients only.

For more information, visit https://w-ise.org.uk/activities/#memorycafe