A CARE company is keen to invite families affected by dementia to attend its Dawlish Memory Cafe.

Twice a month, the cafe is held at the Riverside Centre in Manor Gardens and provides chance to meet with others affected by dementia as well as take part in fun activities.

The cafes have been running for four years and involve a host of activities and entertainment, from VE Day anniversary celebrations to visits from a therapy dog.

Run by volunteers from Home Instead West Exeter and Teignbridge, the cafe takes place on the second and final Thursday of every month, between 2pm and 4pm.

Organisers are keen to raise awareness of dementia and boost support for people with the condition.

A spokesman said: ‘Being faced with a dementia diagnosis isn’t only tough for the person involved, but their family too.

‘It brings up countless questions, particularly about the support available.

‘Attending the Memory Cafés along with their loved ones, families can meet people who are walking the same path as them.

‘It’s the perfect place to share tips, understand where they can go for help, and realise that they aren’t alone in the challenges they are facing.’

Local singer Malcom Tester is a regular performer at the café, singing music from the 1950s and 1960s.

Cristin Catana, owner of Home Instead West Exeter and Teignbridge, says: ‘So often I speak to families who are dealing with what follows a dementia diagnosis.

‘Sadly, there isn’t always a clear route to seek support, and we’re keen to change this.

‘It doesn’t have to be doom and gloom. Our Memory Cafés have a fun atmosphere and whatever predicament you’re facing, you’re guaranteed somebody else has faced a similar situation and can advise on the steps to take.

‘We’re proud to have helped so many people at the Memory Cafés.

‘We know there are many more that would benefit from being part of the community we have created, so we’d love to see more people join.’