Video: Alzheimer’s Society tea dance in Larne

The event raised awareness about the services Alzheimer’s Society provides, including dementia support, advocacy, helpline and activity groups.

The tea dance was organised by the East Antrim Alzheimer’s Society Befriending Service and Dementia Support Service and was attended by around 100 people including Mayor of Larne Martin Wilson and service users.

The befriending service helps people with dementia keep doing the things they love and try new things with the support of a volunteer.

The dementia support service provides independent information, support and signposting of services to people with dementia and their carers.

Prom Café owner Louise Magill is a carer for her father Crawford, who has vascular dementia.

She commented: “After Dad was diagnosed with dementia, I saw a need for support for fellow carers to share experiences, develop relationships and find out what support was available.”

The Prom Friendship Group was founded in May 2013 with the support of Louise, Cllr Gerardine Mulvenna, Maggie Taggart and volunteers.

Louise continued: “We meet every month in the Prom Café and do activities like singing, craft and armchair aerobics.

I love the people who attend, the happiness on people’s face and the fun they have together.”

Recently the volunteers were shortlisted for the ‘Bring People Together’ category at the national People Awards for Alzheimer’s Society staff and volunteers. The awards will take place in London in April.

Larne Support Group meets in the Prom Café from 6pm-7.30pm on the last Tuesday of each month.

For information contact 028 9336 2940 or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk.