A SPECIALIST care group aims to revolutionise dementia care in Barnsley.
The Rainbow Care Group, established in 2014, is on a mission to change the way that dementia care is delivered across the country.
The group run specialist day care clubs for those living with dementia within their local communities.
As a respite service, Rainbow Care Group aims to enable people with dementia to remain at home, reducing the need for care homes - and relieving the burden on social services.
Club attendance is flexible, with some members attending one or two clubs per week, while others attend daily.
In Barnsley, the group will offer a variety of daily day club settings on weekdays.
Whilst the club is mostly self-sustaining, they also regularly welcome guest entertainers, speakers and wellbeing activities.
The first club will be at Mapplewell Village Hall, 391 Darton Lane, Mapplewell, every Wednesday between 10am and 4pm, from February 11.
A former professional footballer will be attending their open day, which is on January 28, from 11am to 2pm.
John Stiles, the son of the late England footballer Nobby Stiles - who is a passionate advocate for the care group’s mission, will be opening the club.
John recommended the care service for a friend several years ago and has been a vocal supporter of it ever since.
Debbie Cheetham, community engagement lead for Rainbow Care Group - has enthused about how the care group takes a different approach to dementia care.
She said: “Our clubs are fun, diverse, and as active as possible.
“Many of our members are now enjoying a more active social life while living with dementia than they may have led before.
“True friendships are made between our members and their families meeting others, who are walking a familiar path.
“This helps local people stay connected with other local people, which is so important.”
