A NEW service, based on dance and movement, to support people with dementia with mobility and communication is to be trialled by Alzheimer’s Society in Chard between January and March.

Five taster sessions, each lasting two hours, will be held on alternate Wednesdays between 10.30am and 12.30pm at The English Martyrs Church Hall in Chard. The sessions will take place on January 16, January 30, February 13, February 27 and March 13.

The sessions, which are funded by an Innovation Fund from Alzheimer's Society, involve mainly chair based movements focused around everyday activities such as gardening, and incorporate fun and laughter. They are designed to encourage flexibility, co-ordination and communication and are supported by a variety of music playing to enhance each activity. Bournemouth University Dementia Institute will be evaluating the service.

Alzheimer’s Society locality development officer, Jo Taswell, said: “Supporting people with dementia, particularly those in the early to middle stages of the condition to be able to maintain communication and mobility is really important for helping people to live well with dementia.

“We are delighted to be running these trial sessions in Chard and look forward to seeing the results of the evaluation to determine if this is a service we could look to deliver on a more permanent basis.”

The sessions are free to attend and refreshments will be provided. If you would like to attend or wish to find out more please contact Jill Lock on 01935-473597 or email southandeastsomerset@alzheimers.org.uk by January 14.