The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) has helped deliver a new Dementia Friendly Hub in Learmount, Coleraine.

Over £3,000 was awarded towards the scheme, which involved creating a communal space where people with dementia and their families can come to relax, socialise and be signposted to support services.

The project was delivered by Learmount Community Development Group, who used funding from a range of organisations including Derry City and Strabane Council and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.

Speaking at the launch event, Caroline Lynch, from Leamount Community Development Group, said: "We've been able to create a safe and welcoming space for people with dementia. We look forward to providing opportunities for families or carers to participate in our new proposed activities.

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"Our Dementia Hub will allow participants to enjoy our 'memory café', try a new hobby and take part in reminiscence therapy. It will also enhance our current signposting service and support group.

"We are so grateful to the Housing Executive for giving us over £3,000 towards creating our Dementia Friendly Hub.”

Sinead Collins, our Rural and Regeneration Manager, said: "We were able to fund this fantastic project through our involvement as a match funder in the Rural Development Programme.

"When someone has dementia it can have a massive impact on their independence and can limit their social activities.

"By having this Dementia Friendly Hub, Learmount Community Development Group can help people with dementia to continue to play an active role in village life.

"I am delighted that our funding has helped Learmount CDG to create a new service that will improve the wellbeing of vulnerable people and those who look after them."

(LM/CM)