Dementia Voices Alliances and the Don’t Demention It Support Group have received $25,000 from the Victorian Government as part of its Connecting Carers community grants program.
The funding will enhance dementia support for an increasing number of regional residents by securing spacious, accessible venues, providing transport assistance, and organising community outreach visits to raise awareness and connect with more carers.
The group, in its third year, runs out of Kyabram Community and Learning Centre and has slowly increased its number of average group attendees from six to 46 active participants.
The group welcomes members from Kyabram, Echuca, Shepparton and Nagambie, with the hope of reaching more people in the future.
KCLC operations manager and Dementia Voices Alliance founding member Claire Perrella collaborates closely with local dementia advocates Mick Simpson and Jessie Hall to extend vital support throughout the region.
“Our group exists to make sure no-one feels alone on their dementia journey,” Mrs Perrella said.
“Many carers tell us that after a dementia diagnosis, their world suddenly feels smaller, When someone is diagnosed with dementia, life can change overnight, but there is support out there.”
Mr Simpson has been with the group since its inception, and said the $25,000 would go a long way in covering costs and spreading help.
“People don’t realise how much it costs to run this sort of thing ... Once you start something, it’s the money that’s got to be there to get it done, and properly behind you ... to get something like this as — yeah, it’s overwhelming,” he said.
Mrs Perrella agreed.
“This funding means we can reach more people, bring our support to regional areas, and give members a safe, welcoming space to connect, share and learn what help is out there together,” she said.
She said the group would be working closely with Kyabram District Health Service, Elder Rights Australia and local organisations to “identify gaps in support”.
“Our mission is to provide a real starting point, a community where people feel heard, understood and empowered to navigate their journey with confidence,” Mrs Perrella said.
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