BORDERERS are being asked to give the gift of time this Christmas and befriend someone living with dementia.

Charity Alzheimer Scotland’s 'Befriending Connexions' project is looking for volunteers who can spare a couple of hours a week to visit someone affected by Alzheimer’s to help make sure no-one faces dementia alone.

The charity, which has a base in Kelso, campaigns for the rights of people with dementia and provides them with support services.

It allows people with dementia to be able to keep doing the things they love such as getting out and about, and being part of their community.

The group say the service, funded by the Peoples Postcode Lottery, can make a real difference to someone’s life by providing companionship, boosting self-confidence and esteem, motivating people living to take up hobbies and interests again and encouraging them to take part in local groups and activities.

Volunteer co-ordinator Jacqui Ramage said: “It could be going to the match on a Saturday, a walk along the beach on a Tuesday afternoon, or a cuppa and a blether on Friday morning.

“It could even be coming along to one of our dementia cafes and befriending as part of a group, visiting someone in a care home or giving them a wee call to say hello. Being a volunteer befriender is a hugely rewarding experience.”

The service is already making a difference to those affected by Alzheimer’s in the Eildon and Cheviot area.

Befriender Allan Dorward was matched with partner Kay three months ago.

Kay’s wife Moira said: “Finding a befriender for my husband has been a great help to myself and him.

“It was through a friend that I discovered we could have this service. If I need to go out anywhere and don’t want to leave Kay alone I can call on Allan who will either take him out or stay in the house with him.

“Through the summer Allan took Kay bowling and now he takes him curling at the ice rink on Saturday mornings. They also attend walking football.

“Allan picks Kay up and brings him home after the game which is a great help to me. I would recommend this service to anyone who is caring for someone with dementia.”

Another person benefitting from Alzheimer Scotland’s befriending service is Mary who receives visits from volunteer befriender Heather Johnstone.

Mary’s daughter said: “For many years my mother has not been able to leave the house unless taken out by me and had no-one to speak to other than me and my partner.

“She is now living with us and has been partnered with her befriender Heather, who she says she has no difficulty in speaking to.

“She looks forward to their conversations and going out for a coffee and a scone. This then leaves me to enjoy a bit of free time without having to worry about her.

“This one to one arrangement works well for my mother, who is very deaf, rather than a group situation where she would not be able to participate.”

Anybody interested in becoming a befriender can email borders@alzscot.org or call 01573 400324 for more information. Following an interview and a full PVG check, volunteers are then matched with someone living with dementia in their area.