John Smith's Helping Hands dementia cafe launched

The John Smith's Helping Hands, which is based at the Wheatsheaf pub on Mill Lane, Sutton Leach, has been launched.

READ MORE > Dementia cafe at Gerard Arms enjoys growth success

John's daughter Marie, 53, who used to volunteer at the Gerard Arms' Loving Arms is among those who have launched the group.

Marie, whose 75-year-old mum Marcella also volunteers, lost her dad John, who had Alzheimer's, last year.

The group has also been launched by Maxine and Sean Kelly, of the Wheatsheaf, Sarah Whittle and Denise Howarth. 

"I always said I wanted to do something for my dad, I lost my hero last year," said Marie, who used to volunteer at the dementia cafe at the Gerard, which was set up by landlord Mark Hayes and Leanne Gauchwin. 

"It is not just for people with dementia, it's also for elderly people who are lonely or who have Parkinson's. It's very similar to the Gerard and I've got the same motivation.

"This is something special to me and my mum."

The group meets at the Wheatsheaf on Wednesday mornings

Marie added: "We want to make people aware that there is a group and people that feel so lonely and don't realise there is something on their doorstep.

"The Wheatsheaf has got eight rooms and we need more volunteers if anybody who wants to help us.

"It is £1 for drinks and refreshments as we are self-funding.

"It is just about us working together."

John Smith's Helping Hands meets at the Wheatsheaf pub every Wednesday from 10am to midday.

• See its Facebook group here for more. Anyone who wants to volunteer or get involved can contact Marie on mariesmith070698@gmail.com.