People living with dementia, their carers, healthcare professionals and dedicated volunteers came together at Cwmbran Library on Friday for the official launch of the Torfaen Dementia Hub. This important new facility represents one of five such hubs recently established by the Alzheimer's Society across the Gwent region, marking a significant expansion of dementia support services in South Wales.
A Welcoming Space for Support and Connection
Attendees at the launch event enjoyed refreshments including tea and cake while exploring the comprehensive range of support available from various organisations present. Representatives from Gwent Dementia Friendly Communities and the Gwent Regional Partnership Board were on hand to discuss their services and how they collaborate to assist those affected by dementia.
The newly established hub provides a dedicated, welcoming space where individuals impacted by dementia can access practical advice and emotional support. The facility also offers valuable information about maintaining brain health through various approaches and lifestyle choices.
Accessible to All with Memory Concerns
Importantly, the Torfaen Dementia Hub extends its services beyond those currently living with dementia and their immediate carers. The facility welcomes anyone who has concerns about their memory or questions about dementia, providing an open door for early intervention and information gathering.
All five dementia hubs across Gwent receive funding from the Gwent Regional Partnership Board. During last year's pilot phase, these facilities collectively welcomed approximately 1,300 visitors, demonstrating the clear need for such community-based support services.
Personal Testimonies Highlight Hub's Value
Terry George from Cwmbran, who accessed the Torfaen Dementia Hub during its pilot phase, shared his positive experience: "Since my wife received her Alzheimer's diagnosis, we have been regularly visiting the Hub at Cwmbran Library and speaking with Dementia Adviser Jane, who has been exceptionally helpful and understanding."
"She has connected us with various organisations and provided practical advice about where to find additional help. The Dementia Hub represents a truly valuable resource for both sufferers and carers navigating this challenging journey."
Regular Opening Hours for Consistent Support
The Torfaen Dementia Hub will operate from 10am until 2pm every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at Cwmbran Library, providing regular, predictable access to support services for the local community.
The Growing Need for Dementia Support
Current statistics reveal that approximately one in three people born today will develop dementia during their lifetime. In Wales alone, around 50,000 individuals are currently living with dementia, underscoring the critical importance of accessible support services like the new hubs.
Rachel Nelson, Alzheimer's Society Wales Country Manager, emphasised the hubs' role: "The new Dementia Hubs across Gwent serve as essential destinations for a compassionate listening ear, practical support, refreshments, and profound understanding."
"Through these new facilities, we are delivering both help and hope to everyone across Gwent affected by dementia. We're supporting people to make the most of life while living with dementia, providing assistance through some of the most challenging and frightening periods."
Libraries Evolving as Community Hubs
Stephanie Morgan, Team Leader at Torfaen Library and Information Service, commented on the natural fit between libraries and dementia support: "We take great pride in launching the new dementia hub at Cwmbran Library. It will provide accessible information, practical guidance and a compassionate environment for people living with dementia and those who care for them."
"Libraries serve as vital community spaces, and as Cwmbran Library continues to develop as a hub offering diverse services on site, this new support service represents a natural extension of that evolving role within our community."
