Dementia Action Week hailed huge success for resort

Dementia Action Week in Blackpool has taken residents on a trip down memory lane as support teams work to highlight the local help available to people who are living with dementia.

As well as plenty of information events around the town, the Admiral Nurse team at Trinity Hospice put on a heritage tram tour along the seafront, allowing a special chance to see the sea and reminisce about summer holidays from days gone by.

Admiral Nurse Maxine Emslie and Admiral Nurse Assistant Julie Woolley-Hemming said it was a pleasure to hear people’s stories from days gone by while singing seaside favourite and stopping for a fish and chip lunch.

Julie said:

“The dementia tram went down so well with people living with dementia and their carers. As well as it being a lovely afternoon, we got to hear people’s fond memories of time in Blackpool.

“People were thanking us for taking them on what felt like a holiday when they thought they’d never have another, and others said it had been years since they’d seen the sea. To be able to give people those special moments truly is priceless.”

Among the 70 people aboard the heritage tram was Phyll Ingham who cares for her husband, Les.

She said:

“We have had a wonderful day with lovely fish and chips, scenery and company. To be invited today is so magical and feels like we are on holiday as we don't get to go away anymore.”

 “A huge thank you to Blackpool Transport, the Thornton Cleveleys Brass Band and Papas of Blackpool who provided the fish and chips free of charge. Also to Blackpool Parking Enforcement for offering us and our guests free parking and Wesley Grey who piped the tram back in for its return. Together, they made this an unforgettable experience for us all.”

Throughout the week, Maxine and Julie visited the Forget Me Not dementia café at Marton United Reformed Church and Time for a Cuppa at Windmill Lodge as well as spending time with the FCMS bus in Blackpool Town Centre and at Blackpool Victoria Hospital to share information about dementia support.

Maxine added:

“This week really was a celebration of the excellent work that goes on across the Fylde coast to support people who are living with dementia and the people who care for them – from volunteers who give their time to help others to the organisations we have the pleasure of working with.

“A very big thank you to everyone who came to see us and asked questions about the work that we do and the local support available.”

For more information about dementia support and activities, visit www.trinityhospice.co.uk and search ‘admiral nurse’.