THE Okehampton charity 'Unite Carers in Devon' this week held the first of a series of cafés for the carers of people suffering from Dementia or Alzheimer's Disease. The cafés are to be held on the first Tuesday of every month from 2pm to 4pm, offering free tea and nibbles, and a chance to chat and relax. Organiser Carol James promised the afternoons will offer 'a nice welcoming atmosphere,' and added that carers are welcome to bring their cared-for person with them. A range of medical staff will be visiting the cafés to give help and advice — Tuesday's event saw a reflexologist offering free tasters of treatment. The events are held at the Glen Community Room on Castle Street. 'The road is flat so mobility problems aren't an issue, and there's on-street parking available,' Carol said. She is looking for a volunteer to help out at the cafés — preparing the room, making tea, and washing up. Anybody who is willing to help is asked to call Carol on 01837 658573. There are currently at least 700,000 people in the U. who suffer from Dementia, a figure which it is estimated will increase to 1.7 million by 2050. At present, carers save the state around £6-billion by looking after those people. 'Their work is really important — but they do need support,' Carol said. The carers of people with dementia can now also call a new national helpline set up by the charity 'For Dementia', on 0845 257 9406.
