Dementia Hub service expanded for five years

The Abbeycroft Leisure Dementia Hub in Haverhill is expanding its support for local people after securing a five-year commitment at Haverhill Leisure Centre. Run by Memories Are Golden, the community hub supports people living with dementia, those experiencing social isolation, and others in need of regular connection, activities and care. The expansion increases weekly capacity from 60 to 90 people, giving more families access to vital support while also offering respite for family carers.

The hub is based at Haverhill Leisure Centre, which is managed by Abbeycroft on behalf of West Suffolk Council. Its long-term future at the site gives the programme a stable base at the heart of the community.

The Memories Are Golden Community Hub moved to Haverhill Leisure Centre in 2024 after facing possible closure when its previous premises were sold. Local councillors and Abbeycroft stepped in to help secure a new home for the service.

Additional space has now been made available through council locality funding, support from funding partners, and fundraising by the charity itself. This includes funding towards the extension of the day care meeting room and dining area, helping more people take part in the activities provided. As capacity rises to 90 people per week, more families will be able to benefit.

“The additional room will enable us to welcome more people living with dementia and provide much-needed respite for their carers,” says Kelly Kennedy-Smith from Memories Are Golden.