Chemics Café Is a Hit With People Affected by Dementia

The people we support living with dementia had a fantastic time at our Widnes Vikings Chemics Café, as they enjoyed a tour of the Select Security Stadium, met star player Gil Dudson, and received excellent nutritional advice.

The Chemics Café, is a unique free monthly event, which aims to help the people we support who live with dementia and their loved ones, by giving them practical advice as well as opportunities to socialise, have fun and reminisce about special Widnes Vikings moments.

On Wednesday 3 August, the people we support with dementia and their relatives and carers enjoyed chair-based exercises with Vikings coach, Adam Daniels, as well as a private tour of the stadium with club legends Eddie Cunningham, Mike O’Neil and star player Gil Dudson, who shared his rugby rituals and early memories with the group.

Gil topped off the session with a special talk on nutrition and hydration for good health, explaining how nutrition is vital for ensuring optimum performance on the pitch. Peter Dillon, our Transformation and Quality Manager, also shared his top tips on how a good diet can support living well with dementia.

Head of Marketing and Communications for our charity, John Hughes, said: “This was our third Chemics Café and each time we see more new people coming along. It’s a fantastic event that always brings a smile to people’s faces. It really makes a difference to the lives of the people we support living with dementia, and their loved ones, by coming together, having fun, receiving excellent advice and making new friends.”

Widnes Vikings star, Gil Dudson, said: “I think it’s amazing what they are doing here at the club, connecting people through rugby. It’s brilliant and I was thrilled to have been part of the event.”

The next Chemics Café takes place on Wednesday 7th September at the Select Security Stadium, 11am – 12.30pm. For more information go to: www.c-i-c.co.uk/chemicscafe or phone 0151 422 5374.