Dementia support centre Reflections Wigan CIC was forced to look for a new base following notice from its landlord. Reflections runs a day care centre for 23 service users, providing social activities to improve quality of life for those with dementia and to give a well-earned break to the loved ones often caring for them. Activities include cricket, arts and crafts, tai chi, zumba, and dancing as well as darts and dominos in the pub.

A £325,000 loan from Unity Trust Bank and £100k from social investor The Key Fund secured the future of the service, with Reflections purchasing a new property.

Duncan Molyneaux, Director at Reflections Wigan CIC, said: “At a time when many local services are closing down, people with dementia along with their families and carers absolutely rely on the care and support provided by Reflections. Thanks to the loan funding, we were able to buy a new property nearby and move our service overnight, meaning the move didn’t impact our service users, a big priority for us.”

Reflections Wigan CEO and registered nurse at the local A&E Mandy Molyneaux, added: “Reflections is a unique environment. We operate out of a family home and have gardens, a dog, chickens, a pub and a patio. We are very much a community for everyone touched by dementia. Carers, relatives and friends are always popping in for a chat and we have some wonderful volunteers supporting us too. We’re all about making people happy, and that’s what we prioritise more than ever at our new premises.”