AN exciting programme of events hopes to bring people with dementia together as part of a community-wide effort to challenge the stigma of brain disease.

The Furness branch of the Alzheimer's Society is hosting a series of dementia cafes which people with dementia, their carers and family members can go along to.

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The touring cafes aim to keep individuals active and independent, providing opportunities for them to enjoy themselves.

It is held at Rankin Hall, in Askam, on the first Monday of every month; at Hindpool Community Centre in Nelson Street, Barrow, on the second Monday; at Dalton Drill Hall on the third Monday; at Walney Cottage, in Central Drive, on the first Thursday; and at Neville Street Methodist Church, in Ulverston, on the last Thursday of every month.

Each session is open from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

Angela Hampshire, dementia support worker at the Alzheimer's Society in Furness, said: "Our dementia cafes are open meetings for people with dementia and carers, providing an opportunity to meet with other people in a similar situation and offer a range of meaningful activities and guest speakers."

The most recent session in Ulverston featured the popular 'Singing For The Brain' activity, which can stimulate musical memories.

For more information, ring 01229 832009.

Singing For The Brain session at the launch of Barrow Dementia Action Alliance last year