'We'll walk a million steps for Dementia UK'

The fundraising group looks set to surpass their initial £250 fundraising target. and is being organised by activities co-ordinator Gemma Howarth. The purpose-built care home, opened in 2019, benefits from its own dedicated dementia community providing specialist support for residents living with the condition.

Alongside their impressive steps target, the team at Barley View are also planning to hold a Whitworth community cake sale once COVID-19 restrictions permit. In the meantime, Gemma will be hosting a small cake sale for staff and residents at the care home.

The funds raised will help Dementia UK as they continue to train, develop and support admiral nurses across the UK. Admiral Nurses work alongside people with dementia and their families, providing compassionate one-to-one support, guidance and practical solutions. The service helps families live more positively with dementia in the present and face any potential challenges with confidence.

Gemma said: “I chose to fundraise for Dementia UK as it’s so close to my heart - as I know it is for many of my colleagues. I have always wanted to learn as much as I can to help provide good quality care and make a difference in someone’s life who is living with dementia. The money we raise will help nurses provide vital support to people and families living with dementia.”

Gillian Bamford, daughter of Barley View resident said: “As a carer for my mum with dementia, I know she really benefits from walking outside. With a little exercise in the fresh air, she sleeps better, is more alert, and communication is improved. For these reasons, Barley View has been raising funds for Dementia UK by walking a million steps”

Barley View’s fundraising efforts this May will coincide with Dementia Action Week (17th-23rd). Led by Alzheimer’s Society, Dementia Action Week is an annual national event that aims to bring people together to take action to improve the lives of those affected by dementia