Wigan Health Column: Do you look after a loved one with dementia?
Pictured: Carers, Anne and Frances
You may not know it, but if you provide support to a family member or friend with dementia, then the NHS recognises you as a carer.
You may help with daily tasks like shopping, cooking, cleaning, bills, medication or appointments, as well as providing emotional support.
You may see it as “just something you do” for a loved one, but it can be exhausting, and it can be difficult to come to terms with how the dynamic of your relationship might change.
We know that being a carer for someone with dementia can feel lonely at times. As symptoms progress, the person’s care needs change, and carers can feel as if they are “left to paddle their own canoe” in navigating this journey.
Carers need support too.
In the Wigan Borough, there is a variety of support on offer to help take some of the pressure off your shoulders.
Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring
Two monthly drop-in groups - held at Wigan and Leigh Carers Centre in Hindley, and The HUB in Leigh - are available for anyone who has been diagnosed with or treated for dementia.
As a carer, you can attend these groups at any time – the person you support does not have to be open to an NHS memory service.
These groups and activities provide the opportunity to speak to a professional from the Wigan Later Life and Memory Service (LLAMS), part of Greater Manchester Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (GMMH). They can offer education, training and advice on supporting someone whose symptoms have progressed.
But more importantly, you can also meet other carers who understand what you’re going through, and can offer valuable support, insights and advice about caring for someone with dementia.
Other ad hoc events and groups are also held on a regular basis. For example, in honour of Carers Week 2025 (09 to 16 June), The Hub CIC and LLAMS hosted an Afternoon Tea. The event was a great success, featuring a delightful assortment of tea, cakes, and sandwiches, which everyone enjoyed while catching up.
Afternoon Tea at The HUB in Leigh for Carers Week 2025
The HUB also provides day services for older people. If you’re unable to leave your loved one on their own, they offer places at their afternoon activity session, so that you can attend a group with peace of mind that they are safe.
Here’s what Wigan and Leigh’s carers have to say:
“Through the support group I have made friends, shared experiences and picked up tips. Talking to other carers is invaluable, as is having professionals there to be able to ask questions informally. For sessions held at the Hub Day Centre in Leigh, up to three places are bookable for the person you look after. They have fun activities in a warm inclusive atmosphere.”
— Carol
“I really enjoy attending the carers group at Leigh. We get great practical, personal and moral support and l enjoy the close relationships with the leaders, namely Bev and Cassie. They go out of their way to support individual needs. I especially like the groups which have visiting professionals which are informative.”
— Cath
“Families and loved ones often become Carers with little or no preparation possible. Many different agencies and teams support the patient. Carers are often left without support for themselves during what may be a time of crisis. These drop-in sessions try to provide some support for individuals and get a wider knowledge of how to cope with what can be a devastating and extremely lonely situation.”
— Rik
For more information about any of the support available, please call 01942 764462 or email LLAMS.Carersinfo@gmmh.nhs.uk.
