A new quiet room has been opened at Woodside dementia and wellbeing hub following a generous donation from Margaret McGee, in memory of her late husband Michael who was a regular visitor to the hub.
Margaret made the donation after receiving generous contributions from family and friends she said: “My grandson Ewan knew how much Michael loved coming to the hub. He suggested we donate the funds to them. I’m so pleased they’ve been able to put the money to good use. It’s a marvellous place for people to come. I love that we’ve been able to provide a much-needed space for people using the hub in future.”
What does the hub offer?
The Woodside dementia and wellbeing hub provides local people living with mild to moderate dementia, and their carers, with a space to come together, meet people who are in a similar situation to themselves, and access advice and support.
Offering a range of activities and groups that help stimulate people’s minds and keep their bodies active, the hub creates a sense of community as well as providing meaning and fulfilment to those living with dementia. In addition to activities, there’s also a resident dementia advisor who can answer questions relating to dementia and behaviours.
The new quiet room
The new quiet room will provide visitors with a private space to have a moment of reflection or to discuss anything sensitive or confidential with hub staff.
Commenting on the new space Rucksana Aslam, Woodside Dementia and Well-being Hub co-ordinator said: “We help and support a wide range of people at the hub. Sometimes people simply want to come to enjoy the activities we provide and to have social interaction with people who understand how they feel. Whilst others might be struggling or encountering challenging issues and they are seeking wider advice and support.
“The new quiet room gives us a calm, welcoming and private space to sit down with people and talk to them about their worries or problems. The comfortable and relaxed surroundings will help people feel at ease. It also provides a nice environment for people to relax and take time out if the hustle and bustle of a group is getting too much too.”
Mayor’s visit
The Mayor of Middlesbrough, Chris Cooke visited Woodside dementia hub during their Christmas Party to find out more about the service. He also met Margaret to learn more about how the hub had helped her and her husband.
The Mayor joined Margaret in the cutting of a ribbon to unveil the new quiet room to those at the party. Commenting on his visit and the opening of the new space, he said: It was great to attend the Christmas Party and talk to service users and staff. Christmas parties allow people to relax, socialise and gain some sort of familiarity in what can be a difficult period for many. It is important that the Christmas period, can be enjoyed by all and that is exactly why events like this are so vital. I want to thank Woodside Resource Centre staff for providing such a fantastic party for service users.”
Rucksana adds: “It was fabulous that Chris could join us on such a special day today and see the difference that the hub makes to local people living with dementia. It was a real privilege to be able to show him around and introduce him to some of the people that use our service.”
