Metrocentre Community Hub marks World Alzheimer’s Month with Dementia Support Group

As part of World Alzheimer’s Month, Metrocentre is shining a spotlight on its Community Hub and the important work of The Rainbow Care Group, which runs weekly dementia support sessions every Friday from 10am – 4pm.

The service provides a safe and welcoming environment for people living with dementia, offering crafts, films, games and conversation. While participants enjoy a full day of stimulation and companionship, carers are given valuable time to rest and recharge, knowing their family member is being well supported.

Metrocentre’s Community Hub, located in Upper Green Mall, is a dedicated space where charities, community groups and local organisations can connect directly with the public. It offers facilities for workshops, drop-in services, business networking events, support sessions and awareness-raising events.

The Rainbow Care Group is just one of 80 organisations that have made use of the Community Hub in the past year. Over the last 12 months, the Hub has hosted more than 1,670 hours of activity, supported 25 local charities and welcomed more than 8,000 people through its doors.

Tracy Allison, Community Hub Manager at Metrocentre, said: “Our Community Hub is all about bringing people together and supporting local groups that make a real difference. The Rainbow Care Group’s dementia sessions are a wonderful example of how the Hub can provide comfort, connection and valuable support for both carers and their loved ones.  We’re looking forward to welcoming more new initiatives in the months ahead as the Community Hub continues to grow and support even more people.”

Zahira Mohammed, Service Manager at The Rainbow Care Group said: “As a specialist dementia service, The Rainbow Care Group provides a level of care, support and respite not available elsewhere in the area. Our sessions at Metrocentre’s Community Hub give those living with dementia stimulation and companionship, while carers enjoy valuable time to rest, knowing their loved one is in safe hands. The Metrocentre is a fantastic partner; its welcoming, accessible space allows us to reach more families and truly make a difference in our community.”

Regular activities at Metrocentre’s Community Hub include:

• Rhythm Time music and movement classes for babies and toddlers
• Baby massage and yoga with Kalma Life, supported through Tiny Lives
• Seasonal craft days for families with The Chronicle Sunshine Fund
• Peer support groups for young carers, amputees and those living with liver conditions
• Mental health initiatives, including Andy’s Man Club, Talking Therapies and Samaritans’ national initiative, The Chatty Café
• First aid training from Mini First Aid for parents and carers of babies and young children

The Community Hub continues to grow as a welcoming and accessible space, giving charities and community groups the opportunity to engage directly with the public and provide support for those who need it most.

The Rainbow Care Group runs dementia support sessions every Friday, 10am–4pm, at the Metrocentre Community Hub, Upper Green Mall. More information and bookings can be found at: https://therainbowcaregroup.com/dementia-care-newcastle-gateshead-central/

Any charity, community group, or organisation interested in using the Community Hub can find out more and enquire via the Metrocentre website: https://themetrocentre.co.uk/stores/metrocentre-community-hub.