The Mayor and Mayoress hosted a reception for representatives of dementia charities Alzheimer's Society and Manx Decaf. 

The Mayor and Mayoress with Councillor Raina Chatel, Nicki Sinclair and Councillor Betty Quirk of Manx Decaf and Millie Barrow and Shelley Crowe of Alzheimer's Society

A spokeman for Manx Decaf explained: 'Manx Decaf is a dementia café. We support people with dementia and memory problems, together with their families, friends and carers. We provide an opportunity to meet together once a month in a social, relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Health and social care staff members attend and are available to provide advice as required.

'Incidences of dementia in our community is increasing just as it is in the United Kingdom. Many people find themselves isolated trying to cope with confusion or trying to care for a loved one or close friend whose memory and abilities are slipping away.

'Apart from the social nature of our charity, we are also trying to raise awareness and recognition of dementia and the challenges this condition can provide.

'The Decaf has been in existence for 12 years. The original café in Douglas was developed by a small team of health and social care staff and has grown considerably. Two further café venues have now been running for the last eight years based in Port St Mary and Ramsey. The Manx Decaf became a registered charity in 2012. Approx. 40 - 50 people per month attend.

'Each café is voluntarily supported by professional staff, mental health nurses, occupational therapists and social workers from the Department of Health and Social Care.

We wish to create awareness of this valuable resource and continue to develop and promote this service in collaboration with our colleagues from health and social care.'

Alzheimer's Society Isle of Man community dementia support worker Millie Barrow explained: 'Alzheimer’s Society Isle of Man is committed to a future world without dementia and providing support for people living with dementia and their carers across the island. There are three dementia support workers based across Nobles hospital,  the Old Person's Mental Health Service and the community, delivering ‘Singing for the Brain’ in three nursing homes and a Side-by-Side service which pairs volunteers with service users to enable people to continue their hobbies.'