An under-threat service for dementia sufferers in Angus has secured tens of thousands of pounds in funding to save it from closure.
Arbroath Connections helps those living with the condition to socialise, as well as offering respite to their families.
It’s now secured charity status and a new home after several local and national trusts provided financial support.
“We feel quite proud of what we have achieved because things did look very bleak,” said Alison Tonner, centre manager at Arbroath Connections.
“It was a very uncertain time. For the staff to stick with things, it shows how passionate they’ve been about the service they provide.”
Arbroath Connections looked set to close earlier this year when it was announced its funding would not be renewed by Angus Carers.
It left staff with a race against time to find new investment and a new centre.
They’ve now secured around £100,000 in funding to see them through for at the least the next year.
It’s a great relief for people like Neil Anderson, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2017.
“If it wasn’t here I’d be sitting in my house, watching telly, films,” said the 61-year-old.
“I wouldn’t go out. I have to go out with my wife, she takes me out shopping.
“She’s got to be with me 24/7, if I wasn’t here (at Arbroath Connections).”
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