Information Fayre highlights Dementia support in Norfolk

The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH) is delighted to have brought the local community together for a second year running to highlight how much support there is in Norfolk for those living with dementia and their families and carers.

The NNUH Dementia Information Fayre, which was held on Monday 14th May 2018, welcomed over 30 local public sector and community providers to hold information stands alongside talks for the public by experts from NNUH, UEA and local organisations.

Liz Yaxley, NNUH Dementia Services Manager said: “It was a truly wonderful event with a real buzz running throughout the day. As well as the abundance of information which was available for those living with dementia and their carers, we were fortunate to  have musical entertainment  from local ‘Come Singing’ groups, which included people living with dementia, their carers and volunteers too. Our pop-up café which was run by our dedicated NNUH volunteers also really added to the lovely atmosphere.”

The fayre was also a chance to showcase some of the knitted and crocheted lap blankets that had been kindly created and donated by NNUH visitors and colleagues. The community lap blanket campaign was organised by the Dementia Support Team and gave people the opportunity to make blankets for patients at NNUH living with dementia.

Liz added: “I’d like to thank all those who visited the event and we do hope you took something useful away with you. I’d like to also thank those who represented local organisations at the event and provided invaluable advice and information to those attending the fayre. My deepest thanks also go to Zena Aldridge, Daniel Schaffer, Dr Sarah Housden and our teams at NNUH who dedicated their time to host such informative talks as part of the fayre.”

The event was held ahead of Dementia Action Week which is running from 21st – 27th May 2018.

Heather Edwards, Lead on the Music Mirrors Programme said: “It was wonderful to see all these organisations helpfully gathered in one place, and many people I spoke with were so full of praise for the event. Visitors were able to come together, receive lots of information, have a cup of tea and speak with others on similar dementia care journeys.”

Marie Lucas, Dementia Development Lead, Age UK Norwich said: “Well done to NNUH staff for organising the Dementia Information Fayre.  An event like this gives an opportunity for everyone from various initiatives to share information, support and advice particularly to those who are affected by dementia.  Equally, it is a good way of signposting the available services and support around Norfolk. The event itself is a testament of how significant it is to work collaboratively and its positive impact in the wider community.”

A special thanks go to the NNUH Choir, Jeremy Over, NNUH Director of Workforce and Heather Edwards for all providing musical entertainment throughout the day, and to Serco, Tesco and dedicated NNUH colleagues for providing teas, coffees and refreshments.