3rd April 2024

I feel a part of something and I like meeting new people

Scots Lane Club in Salisbury has celebrated its first birthday.

Salisbury's only specialist day club for people living with dementia opened at the end of March 2023 after a major renovation project by Alzheimer's Support. Today it provides a full day out for 44 people every week, and last month it won a national award as part of the Wiltshire charity's day club team.

Club manager Heidi Bradley said: "I'm so proud of what the team here has achieved. It is so rewarding knowing that each club member is having a lovely, fun day and that the carers they depend on get a well-deserved day off. Our volunteers have been amazing too and we couldn't do what we do here without them."

Club member Derrick, a founder member who comes twice a week, was one of many members to join in a celebratory tea party at the club. He said Scots Lane had become an important part of his life, adding: “I enjoy meeting new people and broadening my horizons. It also gives my wife, who is my carer a chance to have a break too.”

And member Marian, pictured above, said: "The club makes me feel a part of something and I love being with my best friend [and fellow club member] Wendy."

Last month the entire day club team at Alzheimer's Support, including staff and volunteers at Scots Lane, won the dementia category at the Markel 3rd Sector Care Awards. 

Head of day care at Alzheimer's Support Grant Newton said: "The team here have done a remarkable job. This is the fourth club I have opened and this one took off like a rocket. The community here in Salisbury really needed this place. It's been full, pretty much, from day one.

"Winning the 3rd Sector Care Award for dementia care for all four of our Wiltshire clubs was a very special moment. I was so proud of all our teams."

The Salisbury club opened after a £100,000 fundraising appeal to renovate and equip the building. Businesses, local people and organisations all supported the appeal to get the club up and running. It is now supported by the National Lottery and Salisbury City Council.

  

How you can help

The club relies on fundraising to keep open and also needs volunteers who can offer a day each week or fortnight.

Donate to the Scots Lane appeal

Volunteer at Scots Lane

More about Scots Lane