As the number of people diagnosed with Dementia in Somerset rises, Somerset County Council is reviewing how it provides daytime activities and respite for people with Dementia and their carers.

Service users and residents were recently asked to complete an online survey to help shape the future of the service going forward after the contract with Somerset Partnership, who currently delivers these services, ends in 2019.

Survey responses suggested some innovative ideas for how services could be delivered in the future.

There are a range of services and activities in Somerset which look to encourage people to socialise, get out the house and take an active part in their community. It is the Council's vision to enable these existing groups, and the development of new groups, to be able to support their community, pre and post dementia diagnosis.

The County Council is proposing to enable communities to support their own needs, by allocating a community grants programme focussing on specialist support services for people with dementia. The grant will be intended for grass roots organisations and to continue supporting existing community run groups to continue their work.

To allow as many people as possible to tell us their views on the proposal, a series of engagement events have been planned. These events will allow people to visit several venues in the county where council officers will be at hand to explain the proposals and answer any questions.

Councillor David Huxtable, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care at Somerset County Council believes that finding the best option for the future is key for those suffering with the condition.

"The number of people living in our county with dementia is increasing, and it is important that we make sure they are getting the right support to live their lives the way they want to. The previous services were not built around the individual, however by supporting community groups it will provide a stronger, individual approach which will benefit those who need it."

Engagement events start on September 10 at Wincanton Library and will continue all the way throughout the month at various locations across the county. They include the following;

10/9/18 Wincanton Library                                         9.30am – 1pm

13/9/18 Wells Library                                                  10am – 2pm

12/9/18 Yeovil Library                                                 9.30am – 1pm

17/9/18 Wellington Library                                         9am – 1pm

18/9/18 Chard Library                                                 9.30am – 1pm

19/9/18 Burnham on Sea Library                                10am – 1pm

20/9/18 Bridgwater Library                                         9am – 1pm

21/9/18 Taunton Library                                             11am – 4pm

24/9/18 Minehead Talking Café (Beach Hotel)           10am – 1pm

27/9/18 Frome Library                                                10am – 2pm