The afternoon was a terrific success with over 50 attendees including people living with dementia, carers and friends. After such a positive turn-out there is talk of turning Boogie at the Bar into a regular event with The Foundry already pledging to host in the future.

Boogie at the Bar is supported by Marks & Spencer Bank, Aberdeen Football Club Community Trust and Alzheimer’s Scotland alongside the Active Aberdeen Partnership.

The bar was open for refreshments with tea, coffee and soup provided by the Foundry. Sandwiches and light snacks were generously provided by Marks & Spencer Bank.

Sport Aberdeen Director for Sport and Active Lifestyles Jo Bell said:

“This is a wonderful opportunity for people with dementia to enjoy a relaxed boogie and it is my hope that this will become a regular event in the future.

“This is a brilliant example of partnerships, both new and existing, coming together to break down barriers and allow a wider range of people to enjoy social activities.

“Sport Aberdeen is committed to creating opportunities and changing lives and this is only made possible by continued support and collaboration.”

Sarah Geoghegan, Dementia Advisor at Alzheimer Scotland added:  

“There are lots of people living with dementia in our community who can still lead a full and active life, including several younger people who have a diagnosis.

“We want to ensure that activities and services reflect the varying needs and interests of people living with the condition. 

“The Boogie in the Bar idea came from someone who is living with Alzheimers.  We are so pleased to see to see so many different organisations come together to hopefully make this a regular event.”

Helen Stone, Bank Manager at M&S Bank in Aberdeen said:

“The whole team here at M&S Bank in Aberdeen are thrilled to be involved with the ‘Boogie in the Bar’ event which has been developed to provide a fun, social afternoon for local people affected by dementia.

“We are all accredited Dementia Friends and already involved with Alzheimer’s Scotland but we were keen to do more, especially with the local Dementia Resource Centre. So, in conjunction with M&S and other local businesses, we’re helping local people with dementia to have a drink, a bite to eat and a dance, all in a safe, social environment – we hope it will become a regular event for all to attend.”

For more information please contact Paula Bisset, Development Officer (Active Lifestyles) on 01224 047923 or pbisset@sportaberdeen.co.uk