New specialist service for people with dementia opens at Fair Close centre in Newbury

A new specialist service for people with dementia has opened in Newbury.

The Camellia Club is a modern, professionally run day club, run by Age Concern Newbury and District, at the Fair Close Centre.

Refurbishment work to create the new, “welcoming, accessible, and purpose designed space” started in January at the Newtown Road facility, where its lounge has been transformed to support those living with the early stages of dementia.

The Camellia Club is now open for two days a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with a dedicated team providing a structured day with a programme of stimulating activities tailored to each individual that includes a two-course lunch.

“We are thrilled to announce the refurbishment at Fair Close, which represents our ongoing commitment to supporting senior citizens in West Berkshire” said Josie Reed, chair of trustees at the charity.

“The renovation has enabled us to provide targeted modern resources and is a natural progression after 57 years of continuous services for older people in Newbury and the surrounding area.”

Thanks to donors including Greenham Trust, The Syder Foundation, The Lady Hind Trust, Wilmington Trust and GJ Ward Charitable Trust the charity was able to transform the lounge interior, add a portico with separate entrance and enhanced accessibility, as well as incorporating specialist technology.

The updated building has allowed Fair Close “to expand its impact, offering a dedicated new service to support the increasing number of people living with dementia in West Berkshire and their families who care for them”, the charity trustees said.

“The refurbishment is part of the Fair Close Centre’s broader mission to enhance its facilities and increase its ability to serve the ageing local population,” they added.

“The project was made possible through the support of generous donors and community partners, who share the charity’s vision to make West Berkshire a good place to grow old well.”

To find out more log onto www.fairclosecentre.org.

The Fair Close Centre was opened in 1967 and aims to allow senior citizens stay connected though fun, food and friendship.