United in Memories, an innovative dementia cafe run by Carlisle United Community Sports Trust, celebrated its second birthday last week.
CUFC CST's monthly United in Memories session provides the chance for those living with dementia and their carers to experience a range of activities designed to spark memories and stimulate the mind.
Each month has a different activity, with the second-year anniversary session involving a talk from the Carlisle United Heritage Group on the 1974/75 season.
The project has gone from strength to strength since its launch in September 2024. The first session was in the Study Centre, now the Mixer, with around 30 attendees and sessions now consistently reach 50-plus members in the Kingmoor Park Cumbria Lounge.
The monthly session has proved invaluable within the local community, as those living with dementia and their carers have been able to form a close-knit group and support each other after meeting at the dementia cafe.
The project would not exist without the support of local business sponsorship from World Group, delivery support from John Watt & Son and the grant funding from the W G Edwards Foundation.
A special thanks also must go to our Project lead Teresa Mulholland and our fantastic volunteers Keith Ward and Peter Jones, whose tireless effort and support have contributed to the project's success.
Carlisle United Community Sports Trust CEO, James Tose, said: "We are incredibly proud of what United in Memories has achieved over the past two years.
"The project has grown into a welcoming and supportive community that has made a real difference to the lives of people living with dementia and their carers. It is wonderful to see the friendships, connections and sense of belonging that have developed through the sessions.
"We are extremely grateful to everyone involved, including our participants, carers, volunteers, staff, partners and funders, whose support and commitment have helped make United in Memories such a success."
United in Memories Project Lead, Teresa Mulholland, added: "I am honoured to be a part of running the United in Memories session, to see the group expand over the last two years has been incredibly touching.
"Friendships and social connections have blossomed, providing a safe space for those living with Dementia and their loved ones is a privilege.
"I have met lots of lovely people and have built up a great connection with the group. I would like to say a huge thank you to the volunteers and to the participants, you are all truly amazing."
For any further information on United in Memories sessions, please email: enquiries@carlisleunitedcst.co.uk or phone: 01228 554169