Last month we introduced you to a wonderful independent charity called Memory Lane in Yeadon, Leeds. This is a much-needed charity that offers help and support to those suffering with Dementia and Alzheimer’s, and respite for their carers and loved ones.
However, like all charities, Memory Lane has been hit hard throughout the pandemic and funds have depleted through the kind and thoughtful support they extended to their clients, a time when they needed it most.
To help combat the acute isolation experienced throughout the last 18 months, Memory Lane introduced a ‘Digital Inclusion’ programme through zoom meetings, keeping everyone in touch and with some face-to-face exposure. For those who didn’t have the necessary equipment, they provided tablets and training so that no one was left out.
They also went door to door delivering food parcels and afternoon tea to keep people’s spirits up and to show a familiar friendly face.
In addition to purchasing tablets and food parcels, they invested in some Alexa’s to give away to those most in need of hearing a voice, someone to talk to and they could also be programmed with what each person had to do throughout the day, giving them reminders at appropriate times. Isn’t that brilliant!
Not only that, but they also provided a mobility scooter to one person who desperately needed to gain back some independence. Their care and generosity know no bounds.
So now as life returns to normal and their clients return to their day center for care, Memory Lane find themselves in need of additional equipment to cater for the more specific needs their clients have developed during the pandemic.
In particular, mobility equipment including a hoist for those with little or no mobility and a turn table to help move clients from a chair to a wheelchair. They also need a couple of privacy screens and to replace some dining chairs which have seen better days.
However, as they rely on the generosity of donations and their own fund raising activities, they are putting a call out for anyone who can donate any of the items they need or if you would like to make a donation, there is a Donate button on the Home page of their website www.memorylane.co.uk.
Your generous donations also help to keep the Memory Lane cafes operating. These are community cafes for the isolated, lonely and those with mobility needs and memory loss, plus their carers and families. For only £5 each they receive lunch or afternoon tea, bingo, activities and socializing. Everything is subsidized through donations and fund raising.
So if you think you can help, get in touch with Amanda or Pam at Memory Lane or click that Donate button! You will be making a lot of people very happy.
