The MASE Group
Monthly Alzheimer’s Support Evening
What is a MASE Group?
People are sitting at tables draped inlovely red and white tablecloths. A number of people in red shirts and blouses mill around the room; these are the valuable volunteers who run the groups each month. Refreshments are being served and there is a lively buzz of conversation and laughter. At each group there is different entertainment each month - with both old and new songs being played. All the people are happy, some are dancing, singing and enjoying an evening together.
To someone looking in it has a 'good party atmosphere', but the MASE is a Group with a difference,it is one of five MASE Groups around South Staffordshire which provides support and information for people affected by dementia. The MASE brings together people with dementia, their families and Carers, and also has health care professionals in attendance. Many people withdraw from social activities because of dementia. At the MASE everyone is aware of the illness so people don't have to worry or feel embarrassed.
History
The Trustees of the MASE wanted to create a welcoming, relaxed setting where people could share their fears and concerns about dementia and receive help and support.
Unlike more formal dementia Groups the MASE is based on the dementia journey, focusing on the emotional aspects of living with the illness. Occasionally invited speakers lead discussions in an accessible and supportive atmosphere. The MASE groups are attended by people with dementia, their family members and friends, volunteers and health and care professionals.
The groups are NOT core funded, no-one receives a salary, and all money to run the groups is through constant fundraising from the volunteers and the trustees.There is no charge to people attending, however there are donation boxes on each table, should people feel they want to contribute to the evening.Transport is also provided to bring Carers and cared for into the groups each month.
Future Development
Currently there is one monthly lunchtime session on the First Monday of each month. This takes place at St Luke's Church Hall, Cannock, between 1:00 and 3:00 pm. People attending have time to mingle and meet others, and to take part in various activities which include a variety of quizzes, musical bingo, but more importantly they have the opportunity to sit and have a chat. Carers find great comfort and support from talking to people who are in the same boat and who understand the journey they are on. The relaxed setting is a good way for people to learn about the various services available, especially those who might be put off by a more formal process.
The other four groups Stafford, Haughton, Rugeley and Hednesford, are evening groups, and have a totally different atmosphere to the lunchtime drop-in. People say MASE has a party atmosphere and everyone is happy and content. Evenings like these give Carers a little respite, and couples can even dance together to the old songs they love.
The MASE offers hope and encouragement to lonely and sometime desperate Carers; new people attending can be sure that a warm welcome will always await them.
Please contact Daphne (01785 211140) or Elaine (01785 823110) if you require any further details on the Groups. If no-one is available, please leave a message, and your call will be returned as soon as possible.
Company limited by Guarantee in England & Wales. Registered No: 07228424
Registered Office: 3 Hartwell Grove, Stafford ST16 1RW.
MASE is a registered Charity - Number: 1137193
The Monthly Alzheimer's Support Evening Limited (MASE)