Stop the Cuts

Carol's story

“My husband Tommy was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia in 2016. He was only 66 at the time but he’d been having issues with forgetfulness and low mood for some time before then.

“We used to enjoy going out together and socialising with friends and family, but as his dementia has progressed there aren’t many places where he feels comfortable going anymore.

“For the past few years we’ve been fortunate to have support from Alzheimer Scotland, and every Monday Tommy looks forward to attending the day service at their Clydebank Dementia Resource Centre.

“It’s devastating to hear that this service is being threatened with closure. It’s a lifeline for us both.

“It provides absolutely crucial respite for me, and it brings huge benefits to Tommy too.

“For myself and lots of other carers, the day service gives you that bit of time to yourself, which is so important. Even if it’s just an hour or two, you get a bit of head space when you can go and see a friend or run some errands. It’s time just for you, when you don’t have to worry about your loved one because you know they’ll be well looked after.

“Tommy has made good friends at the centre and enjoys taking part in the different activities that keep everyone interested and mentally stimulated. When I pick him up afterwards, he’s like a different man. He’s so animated and can’t wait to tell me about his day.

“The staff at the centre are excellent and it’s reassuring to know they have been specially trained in how to support people with all different types of dementia.

“If we lose these services, where will our loved ones find the same high quality care?

“Without support like this, a lot of carers just won’t be able to cope anymore, putting added pressure on all social services, who are already overstretched. The whole thing is a false economy because it will end up costing local authorities more money in the long run.

“It’s hard to express just what it will mean to me and so many carers like me if day services are closed. We’ve not even been consulted about this. It’s very harsh and so unfair.

“I sincerely hope we can stop these cuts before it’s too late.”

Thank you to Carol for sharing her story. Alzheimer Scotland’s Clydebank day service has been a lifeline for both Carol and Tommy. But as this service and many others like it are threatened with closure and severe reductions, carers face even greater strain. Help stop the cuts by signing our petition here.