BRIDPORT LEISURE CENTRE

Bridport Leisure Centre prides itself on being a dementia friendly site. Many of the staff have trained to become Dementia Friends and the centre also offers dementia hour; a friendly and relaxed swimming session that provides an opportunity to socialise and maintain wellbeing through low impact activity. This takes place every Thursday from 2.45pm to 3.45pm.

The centre, now in partnership with Dementia Friendly Bridport, also hosts a new exercise class, combined with a friendly social group, for those living with dementia.

The class called Fitness, Fun, Tea and Chat in a one-hour free activity class, led by instructor Debbie and an experienced volunteer.

Debbie said: “The session starts with general mobilisation and basic chair work using arms and legs individually, slowly layering to build in coordination.

“In some sessions we introduce a ball to the movements and add in some ball games. We have great fun, with plenty of smiles and laughter. We end the sessions with a bit of yoga and stretches and mindful listening to relaxing music.

“I feel privileged to be teaching this wonderful group of people and their partners and/or carers. This is a generally stimulating class where everybody is made to feel comfortable and can work at their own levels whilst enjoying music from the 50s and 60s."

The fitness class is then followed by refreshments. Classes take place on Wednesdays from 3pm to 4.30pm at Bridport Leisure Centre. They are a great way to increase confidence and energy levels and make new friends.

If you are you living with dementia or supporting someone who does, contact Dementia Friendly Bridport for more information and to book. Call 07890 649561 or email dementiafriendlybridport@gmail.com.