People with dementia, and those living with someone who has the condition, can find out about all the help and support available in the Sidmouth area next week.

The start of Dementia Week on Monday, September 6 coincides with the reopening of the Health and Wellbeing Information and Support Centre in the High Street – it's been closed for several weeks because of a leak under the pavement outside.

Throughout the week, anyone needing information and advice about dementia can visit the centre to talk in confidence with staff and volunteers. They'll be able to find out about the support available from the Memory Cafe, Sidmouth Hospice at Home, and several other local organisations.

The Memory Café is for anyone who is experiencing memory problems or has been newly diagnosed with dementia, and their relatives and friends. The Memory Café also funds the Sid Valley Admiral Nurse, a specialist in supporting people affected by dementia.

Sidmouth Hospice at Home provides specialist nursing and volunteer support for anyone diagnosed as palliative, and their carers and families; this includes respite support for carers of people with advanced dementia.

Early diagnosis leads to more effective treatment

Adrian Ford, Chair of the Memory Café, said: "As we live longer the likelihood of our being diagnosed with dementia increases, to one in six over the age of 80, and research suggests that one in three people born in the UK this year will develop dementia during their lifetime.

"Dementia can, however, also affect younger people, with over 5% of those diagnosed with dementia being under 65. Whilst a diagnosis of dementia can be a scary thing, the earlier that it occurs the more effective treatment can be."

Gill Ryall, CEO of Sidmouth Hospice at Home, said: "There are an increasing number of organisations able to provide support at various points along the dementia journey and we have compiled a list of the support available in the Sid Valley for people living with dementia.

"By working together with the Memory Café and other key organisations, and with the continuing dedication of our wonderful volunteers, we can help people living with dementia and their friends and families access the information and support they need."

Could you join the centre's team of volunteers?

Another aim of Dementia Week is to encourage people to find out more about the volunteer roles and perhaps join the team. With the Information Centre open again, there are plans to hold other themed weeks focusing on other aspects of health and wellbeing, and the help available locally.

Anyone who would like advice on living with dementia and/or supporting someone with the condition, or who is interested in volunteering, can visit the Health and Wellbeing Information and Support Centre at 48 High Street between 10am and 2pm during the week of September 6 to 10. Sidmouth Hospice at Home can also be contacted on 01395 577 126, and the Memory Café on 01395 577 394.

For volunteering enquiries, email [email protected]