Support for carers of people with dementia

Aim

Carers are people under a lot of stress, often looking after a loved family member 24/7. Opportunities for a break can be very limited.

Our Vision

Our vision is to demonstrate how  BUDS can assist Carers who are supporting a family member on their journey with Dementia.  The role of Carers is of vital importance so, by promoting wellbeing, education and support they can meet the needs of their family member.

How we started

In 2008, various organisations in Sandwell came to the realisation that there was a growing problem with the prevalence of dementia in its various forms. These organisations included Sandwell MBC, the local Primary Care Trust and Harborne Parish Lands Charity which, amongst many other things, provides almshouses for the elderly. A conference was organised and, arising from this, Better Understanding of Dementia for Sandwell (BUDS) was set up with funding from the above three organisations, although it was recognised from the outset that external funding would also be needed. Over the years a core group of foundations has been built up. We also have a team of supporters who organise fundraising events and/or make personal and corporate donations. 

What we do

The primary aim of BUDS is to help alleviate the symptoms of dementia by providing social activities which are also mentally and physically stimulating. The activities take place mainly in local community venues and also provide an opportunity to socialise and reduce isolation. At the same time, carers have the opportunity for a brief respite break.which gives time for shopping or even an undisturbed nap. We have an experienced Staff team and a large team of volunteers, our Volunteer Befrienders provide support to carers in the home.   We will use the money raised from this project and other sources to provide the essential support for carers and their cared-for family member

Testimonials

 We recently surveyed a number of carers. Amongst other things we asked what was important to the Carer in that role. Many highlighted the help with understanding dementia and the re-assurance of knowing that their relative was safe in BUDS’ hands. “It was good to have someone to talk to, someone independent who I could tell everything to.”

"Having someone to help me make sense of everything. I didn’t know what I was supposed to be doing or feeling or who I was supposed to be talking to and Claire has helped me make sense of it. It has been good to have someone outside of the family to speak to, someone who isn’t just telling me what to do."

"That H***** is ok. I pray every day that he won’t have a fit (epilepsy). He hasn’t had a fit since February, so we are doing well. I know he is safe when he is at Buds"

We have many more like this.

This project successfully funded on 17th March 2020