Visit demonstrates cathedral 's dementia support

Lichfield Cathedral has stepped up its efforts to help the city become dementia-friendly by inviting 50 members of the Wolverhampton Alzheimer Caf�.

The group consisted of people living with dementia, their carers and spouses, and volunteers - some of whom used to care for someone with dementia.

In order to give the visitors the best experience, the Cathedral 's expert guides took four groups around a tour of the building - discussing the architecture, history and artefacts.

Julie Grainger from the Wolverhampton Alzheimer Caf� said: “It was great to have four smaller groups and plenty of places for people to sit during the tour.

"When I booked the outing, not having done one like it before, I was obviously a little apprehensive about how it would be received - I needn 't have worried at all as from the feedback we 've received it was clearly a success and I would be happy to recommend it to any dementia group. ”

David Primrose, canon treasurer at Lichfield Cathedral, said: “We 're on a journey together to become a dementia-friendly cathedral, planning now for a special dementia friendly service on Wednesday 4 January.

“We are delighted that this group found a place of peace that would help stimulate their minds but also give them rest.

“We hope many more dementia groups feel they are able to come to the Cathedral and feel welcomed and cared for. ”

Groups interested in a dementia-friendly visit to the cathedral can get in touch with David Primrose: [email protected] to find out more.