TAVISTOCK's Memory Café is the only one of its kind in the area – and with its roots now firmly established, it intends to make even more people aware of its existence. The fortnightly café was started as a pilot scheme last July by professionals from community mental health services and social services. It proved such a success it was relaunched in September with funding provided until March 2008 for rent and transport. Users are now involved in its day-to-day running and its small committee is made up of carers, backed by professionals. The café provides social opportunities and stimulation in a non-threatening atmosphere for those living with dementia. There are games including dominoes, cards and jigsaws, music and singing, a library of history books known as 'memory boxes', table tennis and skittles, and provision of sensory experiences — and occasional outings. The café provides tea and cakes and encourages those living with dementia to socialise with each other. Carers are able to have some time to themselves to 'let off some steam' away from those living with dementia —who are at the time being supervised by another volunteer. Carers can talk about their problems and share possible solutions, with professional advice on hand when required. Café regulars Gill Gorbutt, 59, cares for her husband David, 66, who suffers from vascular dementia, and June Wildman, 72, cares for her husband Alan, 82, who also has vascular dementia. June said: 'Those who have attended really enjoy what is on offer and the carers really appreciate the support they get from one another and from the professionals. It really helps.' With more people attending the café, the committee, as well as making people aware of what it does, is seeking volunteers able to give their time once or twice a month. June said: 'Training can be given to those who would like to help care for those living with dementia while regular carers are together. 'We are also looking for volunteer drivers to help transport people to and from their homes.' June said caring for someone with dementia could be hard and sometimes it was difficult to work out what triggered episodes of stress. 'Alan hates being showered and having his hair washed. What I think it is is that he nearly drowned years ago, and something triggers in his head which stops him from liking water near his mouth and nose. 'But it is difficult — you have to find out why they are acting the way they do. They can't tell you and there is no logic. 'He is like a shadow and really depends on me – those living with dementia seem to only depend on one person, but that doesn't seem to matter when I am upstairs in the cafe. He enjoys it. 'I find being able to share this with other people in the same or similar situation one of the best aspects. The meetings are fun and happy — they are pleasing afternoons full of laughter and enjoyment.' Dementia is a loss of brain function. It is not a single disease, instead it refers to a group of illnesses which involve memory, behaviour, learning, and communicating problems. And the problems are progressive over time. Gill said: 'Looking after dementia sufferers is a 24-hour day for carers. It gets worse, not better, and sometimes we need a break.' Gill said dementia sufferers should not be stigmatised. 'It is a disease like anything else, Parkinson's, for example, but this affects the brain and people still need support.' She said it could often be difficult for people when suddenly confronted with someone who has dementia. The thing to remember was that sufferers were struggling too, and needed sympathy and understanding. 'The attitude of the group is very positive and very happy. Carers who volunteer also enjoy their time — on the whole it creates a good atmosphere,' said Gill. 'It is rewarding to be part of it. Children accompanied by an adult are also welcome to become a volunteer because they add another dimension to the meetings. 'The meetings are non-threatening situations, which is good for people with dementia, whose minds work slowly. The world is often an overwhelming place as their thought processes are slow. 'In public, in a station or restaurant they don't know, they can get easily distressed as it's too much information for them to take in. 'For David, it offers company and stimulation. He can't communicate very well but the dementia café offers an environment where it doesn't matter, and gives us time to relax. And meeting other carers is very beneficial. It is a mutual support group.' Gill said it was 'crucial' the café continued to provide such a valuable service and urged anyone who could offer time or funding to come forward. Anyone who would like information on dementia or knows of someone who needs help, can contact Clair Webber, Social Services, 01822 619113 or Debbie Fox, Anchor Trust, 07795 450653 for more information. The café is held on alternate Saturdays throughout the year between 2pm and 4pm at the Anchorage Centre, next to Tavistock Bus Station.