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Dementia Friendly Christmas Shopping Event in Flint

Published: 30/12/2014

People with Dementia living in residential homes in Flint and their families, had the opportunity to access the local high street to complete their Christmas shopping with support and understanding. Working together, Flintshire County Council Social Services and local businesses and organisations in Flint are seeking to develop and promote Dementia Friendly Communities. This first initiative enabled people with dementia living in local residential homes to complete their Christmas shopping in a relaxed and supportive environment. Volunteering staff and families of people living in Pen y Bryn, Bryn Edwin, Croes Atti and Rhiwlas Residential Homes attended the event, giving enthusiastic support to people with dementia. The successful event was planned and arranged with St Mary and St David Church, Boots Store, Candid Cards and Flint Library. Each businesses and organisation involved gave residents, their families and volunteer staff an opportunity to visit and browse in the participating stores and welcomed them with free gifts, refreshments and support. Boots manager Emma Hodnett explained ‘The evening was not about making any profits, but about continuing to see and support those who have shopped in Boots for many years before moving into residential homes, when opportunities to access the High Street may have reduced.’ Candid Cards offered residents and families a tot of sherry, mince pies and a free raffle. The Parish church of St Mary and St David hosted the Support For Working Age Girls and Guys (S.W.A.G) Choir who sang Christmas carols for the residents and families, whilst volunteers provided refreshments. Reverend Brian Harvey said “ All involved really enjoyed the evening festivities and it was a delight to see all the smiles.” Flint Library stayed open providing a quiet space for residents and families to relax in and organised a Christmas crafts activity for those who wanted a quieter evening. There will be future events in Flint in January, February and March as part of wider plans to develop the dementia friendly community. Future plans include the creation of a community based sustainable fund, delivery of Dementia Friends training and Dementia Friendly Community accreditation through close partnership working with Alzheimer’s Society in Flintshire. To find out more please call Luke Pickering-Jones 01352 702655 or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk for further information on how to be involved with the Alzheimer’s Society Dementia friends and Dementia friendly Communities