The lasting impact of dementia community funding

Age Scotland is committed to empowering communities by funding grassroots initiatives that enhance the lives of older people and those living with dementia. Through our Encouraging and Supporting Grassroots Activity (ESGA) funding (which is provided by the Scottish Government), we’ve supported projects to create inclusive, supportive spaces. One such initiative is Yoker Resource Centre in Glasgow.

We spoke to Kirsty Gibbons, Project Coordinator of Time Well Spent at Yoker Resource Centre, to learn more about the impact of the funding.

"The Yoker Resource Centre works to reduce isolation for individuals over 65 with complex needs and their unpaid carers. Thanks to Age Scotland’s dementia ESGA funding, we launched the Yoker Memory Cafe and a Carers’ Cafe, creating much-needed social support spaces.

“Before receiving the grant, unpaid carers struggled to attend support groups, and those living with dementia felt unwelcome in mainstream activities. Limited awareness and stigma hindered attendance, and we discovered a complete lack of dementia-specific social support in our area.

"The grant allowed us to establish both cafes, giving individuals a space to connect and find support. Age Scotland staff provided invaluable guidance which helped to significantly boost participation when we started. Ongoing support helped us adapt our approach based on feedback, ensuring the cafes met community needs.

"One of the most profound changes has been a shift in attitudes towards dementia. Many participants now feel less isolated and more hopeful. One member shared they no longer saw dementia as 'the end of the world' but as something they could manage with the right support. Yoker Resource Centre is now a trusted hub for dementia-related guidance. Newly diagnosed individuals and their families turn to us for information and support, and our inclusive activities have fostered greater understanding within the wider community.

"Since the funding ended, we’ve grown significantly. More volunteers have joined, helping to promote dementia awareness and support. Membership has expanded, strengthening community connections. Crucially, our work helps individuals with dementia remain at home with their families for as long as possible, providing social engagement and practical support.

"Through collaboration with Age Scotland and the Dementia Friendly Communities (DFC) Network, our staff have gained vital skills. Engaging with participants, volunteers, and dementia specialists has deepened our understanding of dementia care, and shared learning within the DFC Network has enhanced our ability to support evolving community needs.

"To continue our work, ongoing support from Age Scotland would be invaluable. Future assistance could include networking opportunities, training for staff and volunteers, and facilitating intergroup collaborations. Our goal is to create a truly inclusive community where isolation and loneliness are things of the past.

“Thanks to Age Scotland, we’ve made significant progress in improving dementia support in Yoker. With continued collaboration and community involvement, we hope to build on this success and ensure no one faces dementia alone.”

There are multiple ways to get involved with the Yoker Resource Centre, including volunteering and attending activities. You can connect with the group directly via their Facebook page or by emailing elderlycommunitygroups@yahoo.com