The group, being driven by Alzheimer Scotland and RSABI, looks to provide opportunities for those who have spent their life farming to come together for a chat and a cuppa.
An initial meeting took place in Castle Douglas last month and was a huge success – and now a wider call has been issued for the region’s retired farmers and farm workers to come along. Explaining the background to the project, Dementia Friendly community worker Jill Rennie, who established the group, said: “We want everyone in Dumfries and Galloway to live in an enabling, supportive community and feel valued and understood. Agriculture is a huge part of the region.”
Teresa Dougall, NFU Scotland’s regional manager for Dumfries and Galloway, attended the first meeting and said: “It was fantastic to see this group of retired farmers, who have spent a lifetime in the industry, come together for a cuppa, some cake and a chat. Despite not knowing each other, the discussion flowed – from how they farmed to how people now farm and their lives then and now.”
The success of the initial meeting has inspired Jill to try and build it up and appealing to possible members, she said: “Are you a retired farmer or farm worker or have retired family living with you who may benefit from meeting with like-minded individuals to spend an afternoon in good company? Would you like to be a part of this group? Would you or a member of your family benefit from a regular afternoon out of the house, meeting new people and engaging in lively discussion?”
For more information get in touch with her at 01387 261303 or 07795 256731.
