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WEST COAST REVIEW | 27
Our counselling service for
people living with long term
or terminal illness or bereavement,
and their families, is run
by a team of qualifi ed COSCA
registered counsellor and volunteers,
and our befriending
service matches volunteers
with people aged 65 and over
(or under 65 with dementia)
who are feeling isolated and
lonely.
We also have volunteers who
are helping to compile a playlist
of meaningful music that
can transform the lives of people
living with dementia.
Refl ection
In the past 20 years, the Dochas
Centre and its staff have
supported many thousands
of carers across the region –
helping those who make sacrifi
ces to look after loved ones
at home.
Our team organises carers’
meetings in Inveraray, Tarbert,
Campbeltown and Bowmore,
and the carers who attend decide
the activities and events
- the best ideas come from
the carers themselves and this
personal response by the staff
has led to a wonderful sense of
working together where fellow
carers and staff meet a carer’s
needs - be it a hug or practical
help.
Carers are often isolated and
can lose contact with friends
and family because of their
caring responsibility. Thanksfully,
a recommendation from a
friend or GP can lead them to
the centre where they will fi nd
friends who truly understand
their situation.
What’s next?
The Dochas Centre has been
expanding its range of services
and the building is now
too small. We were fortunate
to receive a legacy to pay for
the building of an extension,
but we are seeking funding to
equip and furnish it.
How can I get involved?
We welcome donations and
are regularly looking for volunteers
to support our services.
More info
Find the Dochas Carers Centre
on Facebook, email catherine@
dochasfund.org.uk or
call the centre on 01546 60
0022.