Take a Break Club at the New Bury Community Centre, in Bury St Edmunds, opens for people with dementia and Alzheimer's

A group for people with dementia and Alzheimer's has been launched at the New Bury Community Centre in Bury St Edmunds.

The Take a Break Club invited residents along to a free taster event last week, where they were entertained by a pianist and singer Ed North.

Jackie Mogg, activity co-ordinator for the club, said there is a real need for the group and hopes it will help carers who need a bit of respite, knowing their loved ones are safe and having fun.

Mrs Mogg said: “It is very early days for the club but our aim is it will to be for people over the age of 50.

“We want to make it an enjoyable place to be and get to know our club members and find out what they like doing in life.

“The free taster event was lovely and we hope the group will help with isolation because loneliness is a terrible thing.”

Initially the Take a Break Club will run on Wednesdays, from 9am to 3pm, and the organisers hope to include music and crafts in the sessions.

Mrs Mogg, who has years of experience working in care homes, said: “Music is brilliant, I’ve seen people that are really quiet and withdrawn and music has really helped because it evokes memories.”

Members must book in advance and choose full or half-day sessions, carers are welcome to stay for free.

You can find out more information about the Take a Break Club by calling: 07368504223 or by contacting it via its Facebook page.