A volunteer's story
What was your situation and background before you became involved with volunteering? I was working as the Exams Officer at a high school in Leeds when I became poorly during 2013. My condition deteriorated and I was admitted to hospital and finally diagnosed in December 2013 with Neuro-sarcoidosis. Sarcoidosis is
Why leaders have difficult conversations all the time
A guest blog from Bill Graham of New Wortley Community Centre - originally published on Power to Change. "Discussions must be in-depth, inclusive and sometimes difficult to make things improve." Bill Graham New Wortley Community Centre We have all sat in meetings where we think just by having the right
Dementia journey with my mother – #DementiaAwarenessWeek
Stephanie Lewis from Touchstone's Community Development Service talks about how her mother's dementia impacted on the whole family. I first became aware of Dementia when I studied for counselling back in 2000-2008 however, my first personal experience of this was when my mother was diagnosed in 2005. My father passed
Being a Dementia Champion – #DementiaAwarenessWeek
Geraldine, from Touchstone's IAPT team, talks about the role of a Dementia Champion. My name is Geraldine and I am one of the Dementia Champions with Touchstone. I work in the Touchstone IAPT service where we meet people with common problems with mood and mental health such as anxiety and
Afternoon tea – supporting a neighbour #DementiaAwarenessWeek
Juana Kwok from Touchstone Support Centre talks about being there for a neighbour who's husband is developing dementia. “I’ve seen you around the garden trimming your beautiful flowers.” “I tried not to disturb you.” “Ooh, please do.” “How are you?” “Yes, I am fine, thank you.” “How’s Joe…” “He’s not
Supporting a friend through her journey as a carer – Dementia Awareness Week #DementiaAwarenessWeek
Amina Ditta from the Peer-Led Brokerage Service and Kirklees Advocacy Service talks about sharing knowledge and support when dementia affects a friend's family. After attending an event which delivered the Dementia Awareness session it became very clear to me how this disease carries many misconceptions. I pursued this further by