Cambridge Memory Cafe Trials New Locale

Published on 06 July 2023

Members of the Town’s Cambridge Memory Café program have trialled the Wembley Community Centre (WCC) as a new venue for their monthly get-togethers.    

For the past two years, the program has provided a valuable support service for people living with dementia, their families and carers to enjoy a cuppa and a catch-up.

The sessions first took shape in 2021, after the Town of Cambridge secured State Government funding from the Department of Communities. As part of the funding grant, the Town also established pole walking groups at Lake Monger and Perry Lakes.

Since then, Cambridge Café has remained a compassionate social outlet for people living with the condition which can affect memory, behaviour and the ability to do everyday tasks.

Most recently, the program shifted base to the WCC as it offered more options for members to enjoy the gatherings, which are held on the third Wednesday of each month.

Mayor Shannon said the program delivered by the Town’s Cambridge Senior Services Team created a “community within a community” where people living with dementia were supported, heard and valued. 

“This three-month trial has given members, carers and our staff more opportunity to interact in an environment where they can chat freely or even enjoy a sing-along if that’s what they would like to do,” Mayor Shannon said.

“It’s great to hear that the feedback received so far has been very positive.”

When the program started, 14 local families were attending the get-togethers, but with personal circumstances changing over time, some members had since moved to full time care. 

Mayor Shannon said she was humbled to be able to attend a get-together and meet members and their families. She said the local program was making a difference in the Town, and she hoped to spread the word that it was available to families if needed.

To register for the program, please contact Cambridge Senior Services by email at [email protected] or phone (08) 9285 3136. 

Caption - Mayor Keri Shannon with volunteer Christine Howe and Cambridge Café member Margaret