Thatcham to Turn Blue for Dementia Action

Thatcham Town Council is proud to announce two special community initiatives to mark Dementia Action Week, running from 19th – 23rd May, as part of the “Paint the Town Blue” campaign led by Dementia Friendly West Berkshire.

Thatcham will be turned blue with hundreds of community-crocheted forget-me-nots, the official flower of Dementia Action Week adorning The Broadway, to raise awareness of the support available to those living with and caring for loved ones with Dementia. Shops and businesses are invited to join in by decorating their shop fronts, with information packs being available throughout the week from many of the outlets in town.

The week’s activities continue with a Fundraising Garden Party on Friday 23rd May, 10am – 12.30pm in the Jubilee Sensory Garden. Open to all, this friendly event hosted by Thatcham Town Council and Home Instead offers the perfect chance to enjoy tea, cake, live music, and meaningful conversation, all while raising funds for Age UK, The Alzheimer’s Society, and Dementia UK. Home Instead carers will be on hand to ensure the wellbeing of all attendees, and to make the event a respite for carers.

At 11.30am, Home Instead will host a free, informative session offering practical advice and insights for anyone supporting a loved one living with dementia. The talk will cover early signs, coping techniques, and local resources. Each attendee will receive a free information booklet.

Melissa Johnson, Director of Home Instead, said “We are delighted to be joining forces with Thatcham Town Council for this wonderful event. Our dementia information session will offer guidance for families, friends, and even customer-facing staff who want to better support those living with dementia in our community.”

No booking is required – just come along and have some cake.