Silverline Memories, the North East's only dedicated Dementia Activity Centre, has been forced to temporarily close its doors for a second week this month due to the ongoing heatwave. The centre, located in Kenton, lacks air conditioning units, posing a serious health risk to its vulnerable members.
Protecting Vulnerable Members
The charity made the difficult decision to close to safeguard the health and wellbeing of its members, many of whom are elderly or living with dementia. People with dementia are particularly susceptible to heat as they may not recognise dehydration, cannot communicate discomfort, and can become confused or distressed in high temperatures.
Carer Irene described the centre as a lifeline: "Silverline centre is a life line for me to have some time to myself. Caring for my husband can be hard work and challenging so I look forward to when I get to do things I want and visit friends. I’ve missed not being able to do this with the centre not being closed, I hope it's sorted by next week."
Failed Attempts to Secure Cooling
When the heatwave was forecast, the charity immediately attempted to hire portable air conditioning units from HSS Hire. Despite the order being accepted, the units failed to arrive due to high demand exceeding supply. The charity received a refund but was left without essential cooling equipment.
Since then, staff have contacted suppliers from Newcastle to Middlesbrough to hire or buy portable units, but demand has made them unavailable, with online retailers unable to deliver until August. The centre has now been closed for a second week.
Temperature and Safety Concerns
Without adequate cooling, the centre recorded temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, even with all windows and doors open. Staff and volunteers cannot safely monitor members or maintain security under such conditions, making reopening impossible.
Impact on Members and Carers
Silverline Memories is the UK’s only dedicated Dementia Activity Centre and Newcastle’s only community-based, non-dementia support service since local provisions closed. Every day of closure means members lose vital social contact, stimulation, routine, and support, while family carers lose precious respite and the chance to connect with others who understand their challenges.
The financial impact is also significant. Like many charities, Silverline struggles in the current economic climate, and each closure represents lost income when it is needed most.
Community Support and Appeal
Despite the difficulties, public response on social media has been positive. One supporter from the Midlands donated £10 toward a permanent cooling system. However, the immediate need remains critical. The charity is appealing to the community to help source portable air conditioning units or support the installation of permanent cooling systems.
Silverline Memories remains committed to keeping people safe and hopes to reopen as soon as conditions allow. Those wishing to help can contact the charity via its website or social media pages.
