A CHARITY supporting people with dementia is hoping to attract new volunteers for a new initiative.

The Alzheimer's Society's Side by Side sees volunteers paired with people with dementia, and they undertake activities together such as going to football matches, or enjoying a coffee and cake.

Volunteers and people with dementia pick their counterpart through a one-page profile based on a range of interests in order to encourage friendship.

Mark Hamer, managing director of Home Instead Worcester, has been volunteering for the project for six months and has been supporting an ex-farmer with dementia who lives near Tenbury Wells.

The pair regularly take part in bowls, which has become a competitive activity.

Mr Hamer said: "We went to the bowling club and we discussed with the people there about having a slightly quieter court as neither of us had played properly before.

"They were great and gave us a few hints and tips, I think Side by Side works well when you have an activity to focus on together.

“Speech and vocabulary are quite difficult for him and over time on the Side by Side visits, he relaxes with me and his speech improves along with his vocabulary - it is quite noticeable.”

Family members of people with dementia can benefit from the project as it offers them a window of respite from caring positions that can sometimes amount to over 100 hours of care per week.

Volunteers are given support and training from the charity to prepare them for their role, and they have the opportunity to call someone with dementia during the evenings and weekends, allowing those that work week-days to participate.

Mark said: “I think if you can understand that there is nothing to upset or worry you as a volunteer then you can build up a relationship with the person and it is rewarding for you as well as seeing them going back out into society.”

Anyone interested in being a volunteer for the project is asked to call Janet Smith on 01905 621 913 or email Janet.Smith@alzheimers.org.uk.