As part of the NHS Lanarkshire’s commitment to supporting local communities, the Older Adults Community Mental Health Clydesdale team (CMHT) has built an ongoing partnership with the Auchlochan Dementia Peer Support Group.
This initiative is one of many that supports South Lanarkshire’s University Health and Social Care Partnership approach to Community Led Support (CLS).
The CMHT in Clydesdale consists of Doctors, Nurses and Occupational Therapists who continually reflect on how their day-to-day practice reflects the CLS principles through partnership working and building strong links locally.
A key example of this is the team’s ongoing partnership with Alzheimer Scotland, to support the Auchlochan Dementia Peer Support Group. The group supports people experiencing memory difficulties, as well as their carers, by providing a welcoming and informal space to connect with others and access advice if needed.
The group has been running for nearly two years and meets on the third Tuesday of each month at the Auchlochan Garden Village Bistro. It typically attracts around ten regular attendees and is run by two dedicated residents, Catherine and Myra. Those who attend can expect a relaxed, welcoming environment where people can drop in for a cup of tea and a friendly chat.
Staff from the Clydesdale Older Adults CMHT attend the group to offer support and guidance, alongside Alzheimer Scotland volunteer, Alana Ferguson. Group members affectionately refer to them as the “A Team”.
In addition to peer support, the group benefits from a range of guest sessions and activities, including input from NHS Lanarkshire’s Falls Hub, football memories sessions, animal bingo, and activities delivered by South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture.
Caroline Dougal, Specialist Occupational Therapist – Older Adults CMHT, NHS Lanarkshire, said:
“The group is a great support for people living locally. As a practitioner, it means I can see people in a community space and offer support in a more relaxed way.”
Kenny McAllister, Team Lead – Older Adults CMHT, NHS Lanarkshire, added:
“Peer support, alongside diagnostic support, is central to Scotland’s Dementia Strategy, so what is happening in the bistro fits perfectly with this national approach.
“The CMHT nursing teams have been supporting local dementia groups in the area for over ten years, ensuring people can access support close to home.”
“It’s so worthwhile to see the impact this has on reducing isolation.”
Catherine Dempsey, who co-runs the group with Myra, commented:
“A new dementia diagnosis can be difficult for both the person and their family. This group offers support from others with lived experience and a chance to connect, be yourself, and feel heard.”
