The Alzheimer Scotland Kilmarnock Dementia Resource Centre played host to Brian Whittle MSP last week. The South Scotland Region MSP paid a visit to the centre to hear more about its work supporting people with dementia and similar conditions in Kilmarnock and the surrounding area.
The Kilmarnock Dementia Resource Centre provides a central hub for information and support for those living with dementia as well as their families and carers.
Based in College Wynd, the Centre runs a range of groups and activities including information & support drop-in sessions, an art group, a knitting group and a football memories group where visitors can relive their memories of the great games in years gone by. A range of practical support is also on offer with dementia advisors to provide information and advice tailored to an individual’s condition.
Speaking about the visit, South Scotland MSP Brian Whittle said;
“It was a pleasure to be able to visit the Centre and see the amazing range of activities and support they have on offer. I was delighted to see how much emphasis was placed on social activity. Dementia and conditions like it can be very socially isolating. It’s so important that people don’t retreat into themselves when they receive a diagnosis but stay as active as possible. Having a place like this where they can not only get support to deal with their condition but can also meet friends, and make new ones, can make such a difference.”
Gerry McCoy, Policy and Engagement Manager from Alzheimer Scotland, said:
“On behalf of everyone involved with the Alzheimer Scotland’s Dementia Resource Centre in Kilmarnock, we were pleased to welcome Brian Whittle MSP along to the centre to find out more about the services we offer.
“The Resource Centre is an important hub for Alzheimer Scotland’s range of activities in East Ayrshire, but it also serves to raise awareness of dementia, reinforcing Alzheimer Scotland’s message that nobody should face dementia alone. We welcome Brian’s interest and hope that we can continue to support him to effectively represent the many constituents he has who are affected by dementia.”
If you have any questions about dementia and of the services available in your area call Alzheimer Scotland’s 24 Hour Helpline on 0808 808 3000 or visit the website at www.alzscot.org.