Forget-Me-Not

Young onset dementia (diagnosed before the age of 65) affects many people and presents a variety of challenges for individuals, carers, their families and services alike. One of the key challenges is the access to 'age appropriate' services. 

Since the establishment of Rotherham 's Memory Service, there have been approximately 70 people diagnosed with younger onset dementia, who are currently known to the Forget Me Not group.

The 'Forget-Me-Not' group was officially opened by the Mayor on 8th June 2011 at Oak Tree Court , an Extra Care Housing Scheme, which is also where the group meet on a weekly basis (every Wednesday).

The primary focus of the group is to:

• Improved quality of life for both the sufferer and their carer
• Support with the maintenance and safe management of self care living skills
• Support with emotional and mental well being
• Directly support carers with information and guidance on other services available
• Engage with the Young Onset Dementia service

Access to this group is free. Individuals with a diagnosis and their carers can participate in various activities and also contribute towards the design and development of the group.  Current activities includes, singing, walking groups, arts & crafts, creation of memory books and various day trips.

With funding secured from the Joint Improvement Partnership enabled by the Joint Commissioning Team (RMBC and NHSR) and resources from Rotherham Council; coupled with support from Young Onset Dementia service, the Forget-Me-Not Group is now suitably equipped to fully engage as a user led group. This group is managed fully by people with a diagnosis of Young Onset Dementia and their carers.

Referrals to the group are made through the Young Onset Dementia Team.

For more information about this service, OR to join the group please contact:

FMN Group: Sheryl Crossland Sheryl.crossland@blueyonder.co.uk 07929 484 213.

Joint Commissioning Team:  Sophie Gray Sophie.gray@rotherham.gov.uk 01709 302133.