Memory loss and dementia
- practical help in your area
Amended November 2015
This information sheet covers a selection of organisations providing help and support
for people with memory loss and dementia. It is compiled by Age UK Sevenoaks &
Tonbridge Tel: 01732 454108. Web: www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
Age UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge is a registered charity no. 1088213
If you cannot find what you are looking for please ask Age UK if we can help further.
Amendments and additions are welcome; please contact us.
Contents



















Getting a diagnosis – Memory Clinics and Kent Dementia Helpline
Finding out more – Alzheimer’s Society and local services
Dementia cafes, Peer Support Groups, dementia support for carers
Day centres, home support, Singing for the Brain and befriending
COGS clubs (cognitive stimulation groups), Down Memory Lane, lunch clubs
Looking after someone with dementia
Having a break – Crossroads, Carers First and Shared Lives
Private carers, Admiral Nurses and Dementia UK
Being understood, library services and helpful books
Keeping fit – walks, health checks, weight management, falls prevention
Peace of mind, Kent Carers’ Emergency Card and home safety
Council Tax, Attendance Allowance and other benefits
Advocacy – Citizens’ Rights for Older People and Invicta
Legal advice and Powers of Attorney
Driving, Blue Badges for disabled parking and concessionary bus passes
Pets and the Cinnamon Trust
Care homes, Dementia Care Matters and abuse
Helping out with research
Raising awareness – Dementia Friends and Dementia Action Alliance
1
Age UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge publish separate lists covering:










Care agencies
Care homes
Health and wellbeing
Help at home
Housing options
Memory loss and dementia
Money matters
Social activities
Transport and travel
Work and leisure
Age UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge Tel: 01732 454108. Web:
www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
General help – making life a little bit easier
Age UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge
Old Meeting House, 5 St John’s Rd, SevenoaksTN13 3LR
Tel: 01732 454108 (open Mon-Fri 9am-4pm) Fax: 01732 450791
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
We provide many different services:
 Information & advice
o Help filling in forms
o Counselling if you just need to talk things through
 Independent Living Support
o Help in your own home (excludes personal care)
 Social activities
o Day centres in Tonbridge, Edenbridge & Sevenoaks which offer lunch
and a range of social activities. Transport is provided
o Befrienders (volunteers who can drop in for a chat) can visit people
who prefer more one-to-one contact
British Red Cross
The British Red Cross helps people in times of crisis. Their services offer short-term
assistance to people in need of help. All their services are delivered by skilled
volunteers or staff
Tel: 0800 028 0831 Email: [email protected] Web:
www.redcross.org.uk/nearyou
Support at Home. Short-term practical and emotional support to help people through
any situation that leaves you feeling vulnerable or isolated. This might be at a time of
diagnosis of illness, returning home from a stay in hospital, after bereavement or
when facing continuing health challenges. Support for people with dementia, terminal
illnesses, depression & anxiety, long-term rehabilitation. Services do not include
personal care or domestic care but does include:
 transport home from hospital
 help settling in
2



food shopping, assistance with housework and meals
collecting prescriptions and form-filling
making follow-up appointments and help attending hospital or GP
appointments
 charges range from £27 for one visit up to £200 for 20 visits.
Telephone Befriending. Not having someone to talk to regularly can be lonely and
isolating, particularly if you are used to sharing your home and time with others. This
provides people who are isolated with a friendly voice. You can share your
experiences, talk through ideas, have a conversation or just a friendly chat with a
trained volunteer who will listen to you. A weekly call of about half-an-hour or
several short calls at a time that is convenient for you. Can also offer free calls to
prompt people to take medication. It is available for people who are:
 recently bereaved
 living away from family and friends
 living alone
 socially isolated
 lonely
 recently discharged from hospital
 caring for someone at home
 isolated due to disability or illness
Transport and Escort. Help with travel to and from appointments and shopping. The
transport service offers freedom and independence for people who cannot get about
easily. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are also available. They will take you to
London hospitals or anywhere in the UK subject to availability of volunteers. They
can also provide an escort who, if necessary, will stay throughout the journey. You
need to book at least 48 hours in advance. They can take you to:
 shopping centres
 social activities
 day centres and care homes
 medical appointments eg GP, hospital outpatients, dentist, optician
Mobility Aids. Short-term loans of mobility equipment to make life more comfortable
for those who have a temporary or permanent disability or illness. This may enable
you to stay at home during an illness, or even go on holiday. Delivery and collection
of equipment may incur an extra cost. You can also buy new equipment from them.
Medical loan depot open Mon-Fri 10am-12pm located next to Sevenoaks Town
Council Offices, Bradbourne Vale Rd, Sevenoaks TN13 3QG Tel: 01732 457234,
 wheelchair hire costs £20 for 3 weeks, £25 for 4 weeks plus £10 for every
additional week. Non-returnable deposit. If taking wheelchair abroad there is a
£150 returnable deposit. Wheelchairs for people with permanent disabilities
may be provided on the NHS
 charges for commode hire are the same as for wheelchairs plus £5 purchase
of pot (non-returnable). Commodes for people with permanent disabilities may
be provided through GPs and District Nurses
 back rests and bed cradles cost £10 up to 3 weeks
 other items available eg crutches
 you can also buy new equipment from their Disabled Living Equipment mail
order catalogue Tel: 0844 209 0029
Therapeutic Massage. Hand, neck, shoulder and arm massage can help during
stressful situations and times of personal crisis. It can also assist with pain. This
3
service is available at home (for a charge) but may also be available free at some
locations such as GP surgeries, hospices and hospitals
Care Navigators
Free information and advice on assessments for alarms and mobility aids, care and
support, physical and mental health issues


Sevenoaks is covered by Emerald Care Navigators who work for West Kent
Housing Association; you do not have to be a housing association tenant. 101
London Rd, Sevenoaks TN13 1AX Tel: 0800 197 0097, 01732 749451Email:
[email protected] Web: www.westkent.org
Tonbridge is covered by Imago (formerly Voluntary Action Within Kent), John
Spare House, 17-19 Monson Rd, Tunbridge WellsTN1 1LS Tel: 03000
111965, 01892 530330 Email: [email protected] Web:
www.imago.community
Citizens’ Advice Bureaux
Free, impartial and confidential advice on power of attorney.
 Edenbridge & Westerham Tel: 03000 422888
 Sevenoaks & Swanley Tel: 01732 440488
 Tonbridge & Malling Tel: 01732 440488
Citizens’ Rights for Older People (CROP)
9a High St, Lenham ME17 2QD Tel: 01622 851200 Email:
[email protected] Web: www.cropkent.org.uk
Confidential advocacy, information and advice providing a face-to-face service at
home to help people with many issues including finances, benefits, accessing
services, charity grants, housing, care, complaints etc.
Independent Age
6 Avonmore Rd, London W14 8RL Tel: 0800 319 6789, 020 7605 4200 Email:
[email protected] Web: www.independentage.org
 Free telephone and email service offering advice on benefits, care and social
activities. (A similar service is also offered by Age UK)
 Free handbooks and advice guides: Advice for Later Life, Extra help at Home,
Healthy Happy Connected, Choosing a Care Home
 Befrienders for people who are lonely, isolated or living alone
Social Services
Tel: 03000 416161. Social Services provide many forms of support and you can ask
for a free assessment of what support you might need and whether they might make
a financial contribution
Getting a diagnosis
It is natural to forget things sometimes, especially as we get older. However if you
think that you are getting more confused than would be normal, you can speak to
your GP and they can refer you to a specialist for a memory test. This is likely to be
4
at the Memory Clinic in Darent House next to Sevenoaks Hospital. They can tell
you more about what dementia is and why it is important to get a diagnosis. For
more information contact Sevenoaks Community Mental Health Team for Older
People Tel: 01732 228242. Web: www.kmpt.nhs.uk/conditions/dementia/6566
Please note that there are many types of memory loss of which the most well-known
is dementia. In addition there are many types of dementia of which the most wellknown is Alzheimer’s Disease. The information below is mainly about dementia but
would usually also apply to other types of memory loss.
Kent has a Dementia Helpline (24 hours). They can provide information and advice
both before and after a diagnosis. Tel: 0800 500 3014 (Freephone).
Coming to terms with a diagnosis may be difficult; it may help to read a book called
“Welcome to our World” written by people before and after diagnosis. It is
available from the Alzheimer’s Society or bookshops such as Waterstones.
To find out more about memory loss and dementia
The best place to start is probably the Alzheimer’s Society National Helpline who
can tell you more about both Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. They
usually answer the phone 9am to 5pm weekdays and 10am to 4pm weekends. Tel:
0300 222 1122. Web: www.alzheimers.org.uk
They can send you free copies of their Dementia Guide and Memory Handbook.
The local branch is Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel: 01892 835498,
07742 037882. Email: [email protected]
They offer various services which are explained in more detail below:






Dementia cafes
Peer support groups
Day centres
Home support& outreach visits
Singing for the Brain
Befriending service
Dementia Cafes
These are free drop-in sessions for people with dementia and those who are affected
by it such as partners and families. They provide support for carers and the people
they are looking after in a safe and comfortable environment. You are welcome to
bring someone you are looking after and it is a good way to meet other people in
similar situations and support each other over a cup of tea or coffee. A trained
facilitator is available to help with information and other services.

Bessels Green/Chipstead. Sunrise Care Home, 64-70 Westerham Rd run a
dementia cafe which is open to anyone regardless of whether they are a
resident of the care home. Meets last Thursday of the month 2.30-4pm
(opening October 2015). Sunrise are also planning to organise restaurant
5





meals for people with dementia and their families. For more details contact
Sunrise Tel: 01732 748400, 807397 Web: www.sunrisecare.co.uk/communities/sevenoaks
Edenbridge. Forget-me-Not c/o Bridges Café, High St. Meets 1st Tuesday of
the month 11am-1pm (opening October 2015). Contact Bridges Tel: 01732
868186 www.bridges.edenkent.org
Sevenoaks. Lodge Café (1st floor of the Stag Theatre). 1st and 3rd Tuesday of
every month 2pm-4pm. Contact Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel:
01892 835498. Email: [email protected]
Southborough. The Ark, Gallards Close. 1st and 3rd Monday of every month
2pm-4pm. Contact Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel: 01892 835498.
Email: [email protected]
Tonbridge. Angel Centre. 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month 2pm-4pm.
Contact Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel: 01892 835498. Email:
[email protected]
Westerham. Forget-me-Not c/o Evangelical Church Hall. Meets3rd Friday of
the month 11am-1pm (opening October 2015). Contact Westerham Town
Council Tel: 01959 562147. Web: www.westerhamtowncouncil.gov.uk
Peer Support Groups
These are fortnightly opportunities for people who have been recently diagnosed
with dementia to get together in the early stages to share experiences and practical
advice. Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel: 01892 835498. Email:
[email protected]



Otford (in the library). 2nd and 4th Friday of every month 11am-2pm.
Tunbridge Wells. 2nd and 4th Monday of every month 11am-2pm.
West Malling. 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month 11am-2pm.
Dementia support for carers
Support is available for carers as well as people with dementia to help partners and
families cope with caring. A carers’ group meets in Pembury on the 1st Wednesday
of every month 10am-12pm. Support can be arranged for the person being looked
after while you attend. Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel: 01892 835498.
Email: [email protected]
See also Having a break below.
Day centres
The Alzheimer’s Society run a day centre specifically for people with dementia at
Tonbridge and another one further afield at Pembury. They may have a waiting list.
They offer social and individual activities including games, quizzes, arts & crafts in a
safe and comfortable environment.
6


Tonbridge. Town Lock Day Centre, Lyons Crescent. Mondays and
Wednesdays 9.30am-3.30pm. Contact Alzheimer’s Society Kent &Medway
Tel: 01892 835498. Email: [email protected]
Pembury. Cornford House Day Centre, Cornford Lane. Tuesdays,
Wednesdays and Fridays. 9.30am-3.30pm. Contact Alzheimer’s Society Kent
&Medway Tel: 01892 835498. Email: [email protected]
In addition there are other day centres. These are social day centres rather than
medical or secure day centres but they may be suitable for people with mild
dementia who do not wander and can manage minibus transport.




Sevenoaks. Hollybush Court Day Centre, Hollybush Lane. Monday to Friday.
Contact Age UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge Tel: 01732 454108. Web:
www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
Edenbridge. Eden Centre, Four Elms Rd. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Contact
Age UK Sevenoaks &Tonbridge Tel: 03000 422882. Web:
www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
Tonbridge
o Town Lock Day Centre. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Contact
Age UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge Tel: 01732 771780. Web:
www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
o Woodgate Day Centre. Tudeley Lane. Attached to Woodgate Care
Home but may also take people for day care. Contact Abbeyfield Tel:
01732 365305 Email: [email protected]
o Derwent Day Centre. Baptist Church, Darenth Avenue. Contact Liz
Ford Tel: 01732 352824. Email: [email protected]
Tunbridge Wells
o Hazel Dene Day Centre. Takes clients from Tonbridge area and will
take clients from Sevenoaks if they have space. Contact Age UK
Tunbridge Wells. Tel: 01892 826593
Some other care homes may also take people for day care; it is always worth asking.
A list of care homes is available from Age UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge Tel: 01732
454108. Web: www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
Home support
This is a service that visits people with dementia in their own homes. Support
workers can offer some personal care and help with medication. They also offer
social support through activities and stimulation at home. Free short-term intensive
support for 4-6 weeks can assist carers, prevent hospital admission or enable early
discharge from hospital. Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel: 01892 835498.
Email: [email protected]
They also offer outreach visits.
Singing for the Brain
7
Music can be very therapeutic for people with dementia. These recognised courses
run regularly. Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel: 01892 835498. Email:
[email protected]
Befriending
This is where a volunteer may visit you at home once a week for an hour to have a
chat over a cup of tea etc. If you feel lonely, isolated or vulnerable befriending could
help you.


A befriending service for partners and families to help them cope with caring
is run by Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel: 01892 835498. Email:
[email protected]
In addition Age UK may be able to offer a befriending service for people with
mild dementia in Sevenoaks and Tonbridge (waiting list in Westerham and
Edenbridge). Age UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge Tel: 01732 454108. Web:
www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
COGS clubs (cognitive stimulation groups)
Crossroads Care Kent run a COGS Club (Cognitive Stimulation Group) for people
with mild to moderate dementia to take part in stimulating activities and hopefully
make new friends. Tel: 01622 817114. Web: www.carerskm.org
Down Memory Lane
This is a club which meets in Otford Methodist Church Hall on Saturdays 10am12.30pm. They offer coffee, art &craft activities, reminiscence, sitting-down
exercisesand singing. Your carer does not have to be present but is welcome to
accompany you. Contact Carolyn Knight Tel: 01732743056 Email:
[email protected]
Lunch Clubs
Run by volunteers from local churches etc. Provide a hot meal and intended for
people in their immediate area. They may be suitable if you have early dementia but
not advanced dementia; phone the organiser to discuss. Some of them receive help
from Age UK with running costs.








Bessels Green. Contact Margaret Tel: 01732 453716
Cudham. Tel: 01959 532662
Dunton Green. Age UK is looking for a new organiser at present. Tel: 01732
454108
Fordcombe. Contact Kate Hargreave Tel: 01892 861047
Hildenborough (HOPS Lunch Club). Contact Faydra Tel: 07846 238925
Kemsing. Contact Lesley Harman Tel: 01732 761680
Otford. Contact Mrs Arnaud Tel: 01959 523297
Riverhead (Littlecourt Lunch Club). Contact Deirdre Montanaro Tel: 01732
455435 or Pam Rankin Tel: 01732 460209
8



Tonbridge
o Age UK Thursday Lunch Club. Tel: 01732 366100
o Baptist Church Lunch Club. Tel: 01732 352824
o Methodist Church Community Lunch. Tel: 01732 352835
Westerham. Contact Linda Betts Tel: 01959 561302, 07956 430768
Woodlands. Contact Ann Shelley Tel: 01959 522986
Looking after someone with dementia
There are many guides to memory loss and dementia. Age UK produce an
information guide on Caring for someone with dementia. You can get a copy from
Age UK Tel: 0800 169 6565. Web: www.ageuk.org.uk
Another example is the guide to Memory Loss produced by Sunrise, a care home in
Sevenoaks. This guide has lots of useful information for everyone, regardless of
whether the person with dementia moves to a care home. It is called the “Memory
Care Guide – Understanding the Memory Loss Journey” and you can download
a free copy from Sunrise’s website at: www.sunrise-care.co.uk/careguideIt includes:










What to expect as a carer – assistance, inhibitions etc
Early signs of dementia
How to be an effective carer
Building bridges with people with dementia – respect, reminiscence, empathy
Tips for good communication
Creating meaning and purpose in their lives, especially at mealtimes
How music can help
Looking after your own health as a carer – support groups, respite breaks etc
Overcoming challenges – sense of time, anger, how to say hello, what to do if
they don’t recognise you
Moving into a care home – how to handle this
Sunrise is only one of several care homes which can look after people with
dementia. If you need to find a care home, a list of local care homes is published by
Age UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge. Tel: 01732 454108. Web:
www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
Some private care agencies (see below) organise workshops not only for their carers
but also for families of people with dementia. You can learn about managing
behaviour associated with dementia, encouraging loved ones to share memories and
engage in activities.
Having a break
There are two local charities which can provide you with a break by looking after the
person you are caring for while you catch up on sleep, meet friends, go shopping
etc. Alternatively they can take out the person you are looking after while you have
your home to yourself for a few hours. These breaks can be regular and are either
free or nominal cost.
9
Carers First
3 Canterbury St, Gillingham ME7 5TP
Tonbridge office Tel: 01732 357555, 0300 303 1555
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.carersfirst.org.uk
Charity providing support for carers and respite care (breaks for carers)
 Information, advice and guidance for carers
 Support groups for carers. Include older carers, young carers, mental health,
eating disorders, Multiple Sclerosis and learning disabilities
 Carers’ assessments to see what help might be available
 Volcare Project provides respite care from volunteers while usual family
carers have a break. Small charge (£10 donation for 4 hours). Waiting list at
present
 Kent Carers’ Emergency Card (a card which carers can carry so if you have
an accident or become ill, people can contact Kent County Council on a 24hour emergency contact number to activate a pre-arranged emergency plan
to ensure the person you are caring for continues to be looked after)
 Also run a private care agency (not-for-profit)
Crossroads Care Kent
170 Tonbridge Rd, Wateringbury ME18 5NS
Tel: 01622 817114 Email:
[email protected] [email protected] Web:
www.crossroadswestkent.org.uk
Charity allowing you to have a break while trained carers look after the person you
care for. Most services are free and flexible (including nights). You can usually refer
yourself. The charity is part of Carers Trust
 Short breaks service. A regular break for 2 ½ to 4 hours per week (either on
the same day or can be split between different days). The same person at the
same time to ensure continuity of care. Can give you a break to rest, sleep,
meet friends, go shopping, collect prescriptions, attend classes or social
activities. The carers can also take out the person being cared for including to
appointments or social activities. You can refer yourself. Waiting list (currently
a few months)
 Carers health service. They will look after the person being cared for while
you go to your own health appointments including visiting GPs, dentists,
opticians or hospital for tests or treatment during the day. No waiting list
 End of Life service. Staff trained in palliative care will look after someone
who is nearing the end of life while you have a break. No waiting list
 Carer Crisis service. If you are in a crisis, for example unwell, and cannot
look after someone, they will provide round-the-clock cover in conjunction with
any family that you have. Must be referred by GP or health professional
 Hospital Discharge service. Help people to get home and have some
support before a Social Services care package starts. Run jointly with Carers
First
 Step-Up service. Will help you if the person you care for is going downhill
 COGS Club. This is a Cognitive Stimulation Group for people with mild to
moderate dementia to take part in stimulating activities and prevent social
10
isolation. Meets Wednesdays 10am to 3pm at the Six-in-One Club, Tonbridge.
£20 per week including lunch
Crossroads Care provides a very similar service to Carers First. The main
differences are as follows:
 Crossroads use paid staff whereas Carers First predominantly use volunteers
 Crossroads do longer visits every week whereas Carers First do shorter visits
every fortnight
 Crossroads are free-of-charge whereas Carers First make a small charge
(£10 donation for 4 hours)
 They both provide general respite care but Crossroads specialise in dementia
and end-of-life
 Crossroads may have a longer waiting list
Respite care breaks are also offered by Alzheimer’s Society Kent & Medway Tel:
01892 835498. Email: [email protected]
The Shared Lives Dementia Project is where Social Services train other families to
share their own homes to provide long-term but temporary care placements or short
breaks for people with dementia. You can find out more from Shared Lives Tel:
03000 414141. Web: www.kent.gov.uk/sharedlives
Private carers
Many private care agencies can provider carers at home and also respite care
breaks. Some have staff who are trained to help people with dementia and their
families (such as Admiral Nurses). You can get a list of local care agencies from Age
UK Sevenoaks & Tonbridge. Tel: 01732 454108 Web:
www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
When ringing round or looking at their websites it is a good idea to find out if they
have staff trained to help people with dementia. For example, you could ask them if
their staff use the SPECAL method of person-centred care. This has been developed
as a model of best practice by a charity called the Contented Dementia Trust
www.contenteddementiatrust.org
Here are a few examples of agencies you could try but there are many others:



All About Home Care Tel: 01732 447055. Web:
www.allabouthomecare.co.uk
Good Care Group Tel: 01732 441098. Web: www.thegoodcaregroup.com
Home Instead Senior Care Tel: 01732 759854, 01892 731264. Web:
www.homeinstead.co.uk
Admiral Nurses
Dementia UK is a charity who can provide Admiral Nurses. They can give you
practical and emotional support in your home. Tel: 0845 257 9406. Web:
www.dementiauk.org
Royal British Legion
Tel: 0808 802 8080 Web: www.britishlegion.org.uk
11
Support for members of the Navy, Army and Air Force. Also reservists, veterans and
their families. The Legion also have an Admiral Nurse Service to support family
carers with practical support and advice
Being understood
To Know Me Ltd is a company set up by someone whose mother has dementia. It
can help you create a personalised book about someone with dementia that will help
carers understand better the person you are looking after. You can either download
or buy a printed blank book and then add your own photos and text to the pages. To
Know Me Tel: 01892 710117. Web: www.toknowme.org
Library services
For all services offered by Kent Libraries contact Janet Davies Tel: 01732 585300.
Web: www.kent.gov.uk/leisure-and-community/libraries






“Pictures to Share”. This is a range of books to help trigger memories and
make it easier to hold conversations available at Sevenoaks, Edenbridge and
Tonbridge libraries. There is also a small collection of books at the Dementia
Café hosted at the Stag Theatre.
Reminiscence collections, which include historical objects, audio
recordings, books, photos and posters. You can find such collections at big
libraries and Eden Valley Museum.
Home Library Service. If you are looking after someone with dementia but
find it difficult to get out they can bring books to you and this includes books
for yourself as well as ones you can share together.
“10 Helpful Hints for Carers: Practical Solutions for Carers Living with
People with Dementia”. This is a book written by June Andrews and Allan
House. It is published by the Dementia Services Development Centre at the
University of Stirling. You can order it from libraries or bookshops.
“Grandma”. This is a book for children which explains dementia. It is written
by Jessica Shepherd and published by Child’s Play.
Mood-boosting books. Libraries have a selection of books designed to boost
your mood including novels, poetry and non-fiction. To find out more contact
Janet Davies Tel: 01732 585300. Web: www.reading-well.org.uk
Keeping fit (health walks, falls prevention, yoga etc)
Some of these things may be suitable for people with mild or early dementia. Please
contact the organiser to discuss
Falls Prevention classes
Free classes for over-60s who are worried about falling. They give you the know-how
to avoid a fall and what to do if you take a tumble. Classes include light exercise,
usually in a chair, to improve balance, strength and stability. They give you
confidence, helping you to lead an active life and continuing to do the things you like
12






Edenbridge. Mondays 11.30am-12.30pm. Self Unlimited, Philippines Close
off Hever Rd. Sevenoaks Healthy Living Team Tel: 01732 227000 Email:
[email protected]
Tonbridge. Mondays 10-11am, 11.15-12.15pm. Forsyth Hall, Bradford St. Age
UK Tel: 01732 366100 Email:
[email protected]
Otford (subject to funding). Tuesdays 3-4pm. Methodist Church Halls, High St.
Sevenoaks Healthy Living Team Tel: 01732 227000 Email:
[email protected]
Sevenoaks. Wednesdays 3-4pm. Hollybush Day Centre, Hollybush Close off
Hollybush Lane. Sevenoaks Healthy Living Team Tel: 01732 227000 Email:
[email protected]
Sevenoaks. Fridays 2.30-3.30pm. Hollybush Day Centre, Hollybush Close off
Hollybush Lane. Stepping Out Group Tel: 01732 454108 Email:
[email protected]
There are also 36-week postural stability classes in Sevenoaks and Tonbridge
areas (funded by Kent County Council). Venues and dates depend on
demand. Contact Sarah Warren, Good Neighbours, 12 Upper Grosvenor Rd,
Tunbridge Wells TN1 2EP Tel: 01892 510200 Email:
[email protected] Web: www.goodneighbourproject.org.uk
Fifty Plus fitness sessions
Angel Centre, Tonbridge Tel: 01732 772686. Provided by TM Active
Health checks
Free health checks are available. Local contacts:


Sevenoaks Healthy Living Team Tel: 01732 227000 Email:
[email protected]
Tonbridge &Malling Healthy Living Team Tel: 01732 876347 Email.
[email protected]
Health walks
Take a step towards a healthier life, take in some fresh air and meet up with a group
of people. It’s sociable and you get fit in the process. The walks are led by a trained
volunteer and generally last about an hour. Free health walks take place in several
villages and towns across the area.
Sevenoaks Healthy Living Team run the following walks. Tel: 01732 227000 Email:
[email protected]




Otford. Village Memorial Hall (Mondays 10.30am).
Shoreham. Lullingstone Country Park Visitor Centre (Mondays 2pm).
Edenbridge. Leisure Centre (Wednesdays 9.30am).
Sevenoaks. Leisure Centre (Thursdays 10.30am).
13
Tonbridge & Malling Healthy Living Team run the following walks. Tel: 01732 876347
Email. [email protected]





Hildenborough. Recreation Ground (Mondays 10am. Duration 60-90 minutes).
Tonbridge. Baptist Church (Wednesdays 10am. Duration 30-40 minutes).
Tonbridge. Swimming Pool (Wednesdays 10.15am. Duration 30 minutes).
Tonbridge. Swimming Pool (Wednesdays 11am. Duration 60-90 minutes).
Hadlow. The Square (Thursdays 10.30am. Duration 40-60 minutes).
Keep Fit to Music for older people
Meets Mondays 9.45-11.15am at Christchurch URC, High St, Tonbridge. Contact
Ruth Tel: 01732 360265 Web: www.christchurchtonbridge.com
Kent Community Health NHS Trust
Tel: 0300 123 1220 Email: [email protected] Web:
www.kenthealthandwellbeing.nhs.uk
Personal health trainers can support people who need a little extra help to make the
first steps towards a healthier lifestyle. They can offer you 6 free confidential
sessions where you can discuss the changes you want to make and they can
support you to set achievable goals on how to reach them. They can support you
with:
 healthy eating
 exercise
 quitting smoking
 alcohol or drug issues
 sexual health
 stress
 emotional wellbeing
Sight tests

Specsavers opticians in Sevenoaks have staff trained to help people with
dementia have eye checks. 93 High St, Sevenoaks. Tel: 01732 459588
Up & Running
A jogging group for women who have mild to moderate depression, low self-esteem,
anxiety or depression. The group is ideal for non-runners and starts with walking and
gentler jogging, building up over 10 weeks. Small charge. Outdoor exercise can
really help with low moods and anxiety improving your physical and mental
wellbeing. The group meets at Sevenoaks Leisure Centre (Wednesdays 1pm) and
runs in Knole Park. If you are interested phone Shona on 07710 279497 or Harriet
on 07855 893863.
Weight management courses
Free weight management courses are available. Local contacts:
14


Sevenoaks Healthy Living Team Tel: 01732 227000 Email:
[email protected]
Tonbridge &Malling Healthy Living Team Tel: 01732 876347 Email.
[email protected]
Yoga for over-50s
A relaxing way to improve fitness and flexibility. Sessions cost about £2-3 including
refreshments. There’s no need to book; just turn up. Beginners and newcomers are
always welcome. They are a fun and sociable way to improve your fitness and
overall wellbeing.
 Shoreham. Village Hall (Wednesdays 1pm-2pm).
 Dunton Green. Village Hall (Wednesdays 3pm-4.30pm).
Contact Sevenoaks Healthy Living Team Tel: 01732 227000 Email:
[email protected]
Peace of mind
There are many organisations which offer personal alarms for use in the home. One
example is Age UK Tel: 01732 454108, 0800 032 9425. Web:
www.ageuk.org.uk/alarm
With most of these, a base unit plugs into a phone socket and mains socket. You
wear a showerproof pendant round your neck or on your wrist. You can move freely
about your home or potter in your garden provided it is within 150-200 feet of the
base unit.
If you press the button on your pendant or wristband it triggers an alarm in the
monitoring centre. An operator will take your call within seconds; no need to dial a
number. They will check if you have had a fall, need reassurance or have pressed it
by mistake and send help if required. If they can’t hear you or if you need help they
hold details of emergency contacts such as relatives whom they can contact first if
you wish or else they can contact emergency services directly.
They will advise you to have a key safe fitted next to the front door so people can get
in if there’s an emergency. It is best to have a key safe that is approved by police so
it is covered by your home insurance.
Free demonstrations can be arranged with no obligation or if you prefer you can
purchase online or by phone. There are a range of installation options. They can
send an engineer to install it (and fit a key safe at the same time) or if you prefer they
can send you instructions on how to install it yourself (which is cheaper). You then
pay an ongoing monthly cost which covers monitoring and maintenance. In some
circumstances Social Services or the NHS may pay.
Other kinds of alarms are also available. Here are a couple of suggestions:
Centra Pulse (formerly known as Invicta Telecare) is part of Circle Housing, a social
housing provider. They offer Lifeline (which is a basic alarm) plus various
accessories such as:
15





Fall detectors. It is worn on the wrist and can detect a fall so you don’t have to
press a button.
Bed sensors. It sends an alert if you don’t go to bed by a certain time or get
up and don’t come back to bed after a certain time
Limmex watches. It is worn on the wrist and looks like a watch. It can be worn
away from home. If you need help you can press a button on the side and
hold it for 3 seconds. This is suitable for the “worried well” (ie if you are
worried but basically at low risk). It uses a mobile signal to alert the monitoring
centre and GPS to locate you. They can speak to you and help you (eg they
can arrange for you to be picked up or give you directions to find your way).
Vega devices. This is similar to the Limmex watch but is more suitable for
people at high risk (eg dementia). It can send alerts if you go out in the middle
of the night or wander out of pre-agreed “safe zones” (eg you go the wrong
way when trying to go to the shops). When they speak to you they can put
you through to relatives using a 3-way conversation. It has an optional
lockable strap so you can’t take it off (you can give the key to a relative for
safe-keeping). Personal information and location information are kept
separate so you cannot be monitored unless the device is activated.
Other add-on telecare systems include smoke detectors, flood detectors,
extreme temperature sensors, property exit sensors and carbon monoxide
detectors.
Centra Pulse Tel: 0300 123 3232. Web: www.centrapulse.org.uk
Just Checking Ltd offer online monitoring to give families peace of mind. Wireless
sensors placed around the home will send text or email alerts to families if:
 there are no signs of activity in the morning.
 a carer hasn’t arrived.
 a door has been left open.
 someone has gone out at night.
 someone has visited at an unusual time.
Just Checking Ltd Tel: 01564 785100. Web: www.justchecking.co.uk
If you are looking after someone, you can carry a Kent Carers’ Emergency Card. If
you are taken ill or have an accident, it alerts people that you look after someone
who depends on you. It tells them to ring a Social Services contact centre who can
arrange emergency cover. This service is free and round-the-clock. You can get the
card from Carers First Tel: 0300 303 1555. Web:
www.kentcarersemergencycard.org.uk
Search & Rescue
You are advised to take a clear passport-style photo of anyone you care for. That
way, in the event that they should wander off, a recent photo will make it easier to
find them and get them home safe and sound. For further advice contact Kent
Search & Rescue Tel: 01622 843005 Web: www.ksar.co.uk
Social Services
16
Tel: 03000 416161. Email: [email protected] Web:
www.kent.gov.uk/adultsocialcare
Social Services may also be able to provide Telecare monitoring sensors (which
alert a call centre if you fall or need help)
Home safety
Kent Fire & Rescue Service Vulnerable Persons Team carry out home safety
visits to provide advice for people who are forgetful or visually or hearing-impaired.
They canfit or provide smoke alarms and other fire prevention devices (fire retardant
bedding & blankets, letterbox sealing, ashtrays, gas& carbon monoxide alarms).
They can also provide cooker switches or shut off cookers and provide lockable
covers for electric sockets. Telecare lifeline alarms also available. Tel: 0800 923
7000, 01622 692121. Email: [email protected]: www.kent.fire-uk.org
Council Tax reductions and other benefits
If you have dementia and are over 65 you are eligible to apply for Attendance
Allowance. This is a government benefit which is not linked to your income or
savings and is not taxed. It is for people whose health has declined and are finding
things more difficult as a result of their health. You are also eligible to apply for a
25% reduction in your Council Tax. You can get help filling in the forms from Age UK
Sevenoaks & Tonbridge Tel: 01732 454108
www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
Advocacy
If you feel that your views are not being listened to then advocacy may be able to
help. Age UK have an advocacy service for people with mental capacity but there
are also specialist advocacy services for people with dementia.


Citizens’ Rights for Older People (CROP). 9a High St, Lenham ME17 2QD
Tel: 01622 851200 Email: [email protected] Web:
www.cropkent.org.ukConfidential advocacy, information and advice providing
a face-to-face service at home to help people with many issues including
finances, benefits, accessing services, charity grants, housing, care,
complaints etc.
Invicta Advocacy Network Tel: 01322 285234. Web: www.invicta-advocacynetwork.org.uk
Legal advice and Powers of Attorney
It is very important to try to set up Lasting Powers of Attorney while you still have
mental capacity (in other words while you can recognise and understand what you
will be signing). These will enable your family or friends (or a solicitor) to manage
your finances, property and affairs as well as your health and welfare when you can
no longer make decisions.
The cheapest option is to fill in the forms yourself but they are long and complicated.
You may find it easier and less time-consuming to ask a solicitor to do it for you.
17
Forms and guidance are available from the government’s Office of the Public
Guardian Tel: 0300 456 0300. Web: www.gov.uk/government/organisations/officeof-the-public-guardianwww.gov.uk/power-of-attorney
Age UK cannot make recommendations for legal advice. However here are some
options for solicitors who specialise in helping older people (some may specialise in
helping people who have dementia):
Age UK Legal Services
There is a legal service provided by Irwin Mitchell Solicitors on behalf of Age UK.
This is a telephone advice and correspondence service rather than a face-to-face
service. Tel: 0845 685 1078.
Solicitors for the Elderly
If you prefer to see a solicitor face-to-face (or have difficulties hearing) then you
could approach a solicitor who specialises in helping older people.
Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE) is an independent, national organisation of lawyers,
such as solicitors, barristers, and legal executives who provide specialist legal advice
for older and vulnerable people, their families and carers. They specialise in such
things as wills, Power of Attorney, living wills, tax planning, asset preservation,
trusts, probate, paying for care, NHS continuing healthcare, Court of Protection and
elder abuse. You can find out more about them by phoning them on 0844 567 6173
or looking on their website at:
www.solicitorsfortheelderly.com
The nearest ones are:
Sevenoaks
 JE Bennett Law, Victoria House, 52 High St, Sevenoaks TN13 1JG. Contact
Jane Bennett Tel: 01732 454983 Web: www.jebennettlaw.co.uk
 Knocker & Foskett, Red House, 50 High St, Sevenoaks TN13 1JL. Contact
Sheila Campbell or Rachel Main Tel: 01732 459931 Web: www.knockerfoskett.co.uk
 McMillan Williams, 138 High St, Sevenoaks TN13 1XE. Contact Mark
Stubberfield Tel: 01732 758545 Web: www.mwsolicitors.co.uk
Tunbridge Wells
 Thomson, Snell & Passmore Solicitors, 3 Lonsdale Gardens, Tunbridge Wells
TN1 1NX. Contact Martin Terrell, Brian Bacon or Heather West Tel: 01892
510000 Web: www.ts-p.co.uk
 Berry & Lamberts Solicitors, 11 Church Rd, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1JA.
Contact Amy Paxton Tel: 01892 526344 Web: www.the-solicitors.co.uk
 Max Barford & Co, 16 Mount Pleasant Rd, Tunbridge Wells TN1 1QU.
Contact Catrina Dodds Tel: 01892 539379 Web: www.maxbarford.co.uk
Orpington
18


Clarkson, Wright & Jakes Ltd, Valiant House, 12 Knoll Rise, Orpington BR6
0PG. Contact Jeremy Groeger-Wilson Tel: 01689 887847 Web:
www.cwj.co.uk
TG Baynes Solicitors, Downe House, 303 High St, Orpington BR6 0NJ.
Contact Andrew Robertson Tel: 01689 886000 Web: www.tgbaynes.com
Maidstone
 Brachers LLP, Somerfield House, 59 London Rd, Maidstone ME16 8JH.
Contact Christopher Eriksson-Lee Tel: 01622 690691 Web:
www.brachers.co.uk
 Whitehead Monckton Solicitors, Monckton House, 72 King St, Maidstone
ME14 1BL. Contact Kerin Speedie Tel: 01622 698044 Web:
www.whitehead-monckton.co.uk
Of course there are many other local solicitors who are not members of Solicitors for
the Elderly but who may still be able to help you.
If you do not set up Powers of Attorney and no longer have mental capacity your
family will need to go through the Court of Protection which is a lot longer and even
more expensive so it is a good idea to do it as soon as possible. Tel: 0300 456
4600. Web: www.gov.uk/courts-tribunals/court-of-protection
Driving
Kent Community Health NHS Trust can carry out assessments on whether people
with dementia can still drive safely. Tel: 0300 123 1807. Web: www.kentcht.nhs.uk
Disabled Parking & Concessionary Bus Passes
Kent County Council Blue Badge Team can help people with dementia apply for
Blue Badges (for disabled parking) and can give them and their companions
concessionary bus passes. Tel: 03000 416262. Web: www.kent.gov.uk
Pets
The Cinnamon Trust is a charity whose volunteers will do things such as walk dogs,
fetch catfood or foster pets when their owners are in hospital. They may also be able
to help if you can no longer look after your pet Tel: 01736 757900 Web:
www.cinnamon.org.uk
Care homes
If you need to go into a care home, many residential and nursing homes specialise in
dementia. You can get a list of local care homes from Age UK Sevenoaks &
Tonbridge Tel: 01732 454108. Web: www.ageuksevenoaksandtonbridge.org.uk
Dementia Care Matters is trying an approach which involves accepting the person's
perceived reality rather than trying to correct it. There is some evidence that this
19
makes people happier but it requires a lot of effort on the part of family and carers.
There are a few care homes adopting this approach; the nearest are on the South
Coast and the other side of Surrey. For more information contact Dementia Care
Matters Tel: 01273 242335. Web: www.dementiacarematters.com
Abuse
There are many forms of abuse:
Physical abuse. This includes:




Hitting, slapping, pushing, kicking, punching etc
Misuse of medication
Restraining without justifiable reasons
Inappropriate sanctions including deprivation of food, clothing, heating and
health care
Sexual abuse. This includes:




Sexual activity which a vulnerable adult has not consented to, cannot consent
to or has been pressured into
Sexual assault and harassment
Rape or attempted rape
Non-contact abuse such as sexual comments or pornography
Psychological abuse. This includes:








Isolation or withdrawal
Deliberate denial of religious or cultural needs
Failure to provide access to appropriate social activities or education
Verbal abuse, harassment or blaming
Controlling or coercion
Emotional or verbal abuse
Humiliation or ridicule
Threats eg threats about children
Financial or material abuse. This includes:





Theft, fraud, exploitation or risk of money being taken
Misuse of loyalty cards by carers etc
Borrowing or accepting money or possessions
Goods or services bought without consent
Control of money eg withholding money
Neglect or acts of omission. This can happen at home as well as in care or in
hospital. It includes:

Being got up unacceptably late or being put to bed unacceptably early by
carers
20



Not being given adequate support to eat or drink by carers (in particular those
with dementia)
Carers not carrying out vital tasks such as washing or dressing because of
lack of time
Carers talking over older people (sometimes on mobile phones) or patronizing
them
Discriminatory abuse. This includes:


Discrimination on grounds of sex, race, colour, language, culture, religion,
politics or sexual orientation
Discrimination based on disability or age
Community Safety at your local council can advise you if you need to discuss
whether you think someone may be being abused:

Sevenoaks District Community Safety Unit Tel: 01732 227000 Email:
[email protected]
 Tonbridge & Malling Community Safety Team Tel: 01732 844522 Email:
[email protected]
In an emergency call Social Services on 03000 416161 and ask for the Safeguarding
Unit. Outside office hours call 03000 419191
Helping out with research
If you have dementia or are looking after someone with it and would like to help with
training student doctors, nurses and paramedics to understand more about dementia
and how it affects people then contact Sophie Mackrell Tel: 07713 779582 Email:
[email protected] You would be visited by two students a couple
of times a year.
Raising awareness
If you are interested in raising awareness about dementia, you could contact:



West Kent Dementia Action Alliance Tel: 07730 750906. Web:
www.dementiafriendlykent.org.uk
Dementia Friends Tel: 01245 454319. Web: www.dementiafriends.org.uk
West Kent Memorybilia Service User Group (part of DEEP – the Dementia
Engagement & Empowerment Project) Tel: 01622 725000. Web:
www.dementiavoices.org.uk
21