Volunteer for Inspirational Dementia Project

Linda Robinson, Age NI Care Services Director, said, ‘In Northern Ireland, it is estimated that there are 19,000 people living with dementia, and these levels are projected to rise to 60,000 by 2051, which is the fastest expected rate of increase in the UK.* This exciting new service will ensure that older people with dementia, especially those who are isolated, are supported to stay independent, active and engaged at home and involved in their own decision-making. The service will also offer respite and relief to carers and families.’

‘There are two Community Navigators, Mandy Wilson and Rachel Moorhead, who will work with older people in their own homes and match them to a suitable volunteer, known as an Age NI Dementia Ambassador. The volunteers will visit and help them to make informed choices about their care needs, signposting them to relevant information, options, services and facilities that will improve their health and wellbeing and enable them to live life their way.’

Contact: Mandy Wilson (Northern Trust areas - Antrim, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Carrickfergus, Coleraine, Cookstown, Larne, Magherafelt, Moyle and Newtownabbey) on 0743 658 1438 or email [email protected]

Contact: Rachel Moorhead (Belfast Trust) on 0743 658 1437 or email [email protected]

This is a five year project in partnership with Age NI, the Belfast and Northern Health and Social Care Trusts, and the Big Lottery Fund.

*Source - DHSSPS 2010