A Lanarkshire group that supports people living with dementia have been a enjoying a double celebration this month.
The Stonehouse Jubilee Club gathered to celebrate the organisation's 10th anniversary as members and volunteers gathered for the occasion.
But it was also the awarding of a grant from the National Lottery Community Fund that made this extra special.
Not only did the vital funds allow the event to take place at the Strathaven Hotel on March 10, but it also secured a guest entertainer.
And the cash boost will now allow professional entertainers to attend the club's meetings and outings throughout the rest of the year, providing great fun and respite to locals with dementia.
The Stonehouse Jubilee Club provides a social afternoon in a supported setting with the emphasis on music and memory and how this benefits the members and their carers.
The club was closed for a long break during the pandemic. And after being open for a short time, the club had to close again when the Omicron variant started to spread.
Volunteers have since worked tirelessly to keep in touch with members by telephone contact and weekly blogs on the Facebook page. This was to ensure members and their carers knew they were not alone and had not been forgotten.
Now, more positive times are ahead for the group thanks to securing the community grant.
Kate Still from the National Lottery said: “ Our funding can make amazing things happen in local communities across the country.
"This project delivered by Stonehouse Jubilee Club, is a great example of community activity in action, showing just what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause or to help others.
"National Lottery players can be proud to know that the money they raise is helping to support this vital work and to help communities thrive.”
Members of the group commented on their time with the club.
One said: “I attend the Jubilee Club every Thursday and I am able to chat with old friends I have known from years ago.”
Another added: “These days we’re always encouraged to look ahead and look to the future, but for those of us of a certain age it’s nice to look back.”
And a volunteer told: “What a fantastic couple of hours I had with these special people. The interaction with the entertainer was delightful and to see their expressions change at the recognition of particular songs was wonderful.”
The Stonehouse Jubilee Club meets weekly on a Thursday from 1.30pm to 3.30pm in South Lanarkshire Lifestyles Centre, Udston Mill Road, Stonehouse.
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