Vital Balby dementia support group welcomes new members as local demand grows

The Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) is extending an invitation to new members for its dementia support group in Balby. The Balby Cognitive Stimulation Therapy Group, which meets every Tuesday from 10am to 12pm, provides a welcoming and supportive environment for people living with dementia, their families, and carers. Participants can engage in mentally stimulating activities, socialise, and access tailored support from trained volunteers and staff. The RVS operates five such dementia support groups across Doncaster, each designed to cater to the interests of its members. Activities range from music therapy, gentle exercise, and quizzes to interactive memory games, indoor sports, and arts and crafts. Recent sessions have even included making doughnuts and candy floss mocktails. These sessions are crucial for helping individuals with dementia remain active, engaged, and connected within their local community. For carers, the groups offer an invaluable opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences and understand their challenges. With an estimated 982,000 people currently living with dementia in the UK – a figure projected to reach 1.4 million by 2040 – the need for such social and practical support is growing. In Doncaster alone, over 4,300 individuals are thought to be affected by the condition. A survey conducted by the Royal Voluntary Service among its dementia service users highlighted the significant positive impact of these groups. A remarkable 96% of attendees reported that the groups helped them build a support network, while 95% experienced increased social contact. Furthermore, 99% stated that the support received positively affected their emotional and physical wellbeing. Jan Burrows, Doncaster Dementia Support Manager at Royal Voluntary Service, emphasised the person-centred approach of the service. "We currently have approximately 100 people attending our groups across Doncaster and the feedback from those we support is overwhelmingly positive," she said. "We deliver a person-centered service for our members and strive to make the groups a fun and supportive place to be." Mrs G, a carer who attends a Doncaster RVS group with her husband, shared her positive experience: "Both my partner and I attend one of the groups in Doncaster and thoroughly enjoy the activities. It is a lovely environment for people living with dementia and carers alike." She added: "As a carer I benefit from the groups as I am able to get support from my peers and if I need support or advice the team are always there to help. We look forward to attending and always leave with a smile on our face." Those interested in joining the Balby group or learning more about the service can contact Jan Burrows, Service Manager, on 07714898565 or via email at jan.burrows@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk. Further information about the Royal Voluntary Service in Doncaster is available at royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk.