A growing network of Isle of Wight businesses has pledged its support to Alzheimer Café Isle of Wight, helping more families affected by dementia access vital advice and support.
Vectis Business Link (VBL) has named Alzheimer Café Isle of Wight as its sponsored charity following a vote by members last week.
The partnership will focus on raising awareness of the charity’s work, with businesses promoting its cafés and the Parklands Dementia Resource Centre in Cowes to their customers and wider networks.
In return, the charity will help business owners and their staff better understand dementia, recognise when customers may be affected and respond with care and confidence.
Vectis Business Link has been established for 12 years and brings together businesses from a wide range of sectors, including legal and financial services, property, trades, hospitality, media and health and wellbeing.
The group meets every fortnight at the Ryde Castle Hotel between 07:30 and 09:00, with members sharing referrals, discussing challenges and supporting one another.
Only one representative from each trade or profession can join, allowing members to build relationships without direct competition.
Sarah Moss, of Jack Up Events and Retro Staycations, nominated Alzheimer Café Isle of Wight after experiencing first-hand the difference its services have made to her own family.
Sarah has said:
“Dementia touches so many Island families, and having seen first-hand the difference Parklands makes to my own family, I want more people to know this incredible source of support is out there.
“This partnership works both ways. Our members can help Alzheimer Café Isle of Wight reach families who don’t yet know where to turn, and the charity’s expertise will help us, whatever our trade or profession, recognise when a customer may be living with dementia and respond with care and confidence.
“It’s a great example of Island businesses and charities helping one another.”
Maggie Bennett, CEO of Alzheimer Café Isle of Wight, has said:
“We are delighted to have been chosen as Vectis Business Link’s sponsored charity. We are incredibly grateful for the support of this fantastic Island-wide business network and look forward to working together over the coming months.
“This partnership is a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness of dementia, share knowledge and practical advice, and help more people across the Isle of Wight discover the support and services available to them.
“Dementia affects so many individuals, families and carers in our community, and by working together, we hope to reach more people who could benefit from our support.”
