A Scottish Government minister put her best foot forward during a visit to Dementia Friendly Prestwick.

MSP Maree Todd, Minister for Social Care, Mental Wellbeing and Sport, visited the group on Wednesday, January 10. 

The social club for people with dementia and their families showcased how they are helping to support local people.

The minister asked to visit Prestwick Meeting Centre and to meet with people affected with a diagnosis of dementia.

Members chatted to the minister and were keen to tell Ms Todd how the club - which opened 18 months ago - has helped them.

Prestwick Meeting Centre was opened by Dementia Friendly Prestwick in June 2022 after raising funds to provide care and support to people with mild to moderate dementia.

The staff and expert volunteers support the members to stay connected to their communities through conversation, activities, and physical movement.

Music plays a significant part of the club and they are collaborating with Ayr Hospital Radio to produce radio shows featuring the people who attend.

Ms Todd requested a song that holds special memories for her - Loch Maree Islands - which the radio DJ played, and she delighted members by joining in with some impromptu dancing.

Ms Todd said: "It was my pleasure to visit the Prestwick Meeting Centre to meet Dementia Friendly Prestwick staff, people living with dementia, and their care partners and see first-hand the impact of support being delivered in the local community.

"Their focus on helping people to be active, connected and supported within their local areas helps people living with dementia to stay well."

Elissa Wilson works at the Meeting Centre and was one of the local people who set up the charity.

She said: "We discussed the many benefits of our weekly health walk on Monday mornings to both the physical and mental wellbeing of our members.

"It's an activity that is open to non-members and keeps an important connection with the local community.

"We know that the power of connection is so important for people with dementia and their families.

"It is heartening to see the joy that people experience when they come together in this warm, friendly and welcoming environment."

Prestwick Meeting Centre is open Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 10:30am to 3pm, and is based at the Royal Air Force Association Club at 10 Ardayre Road.

People are encouraged to drop in or get in touch by calling 07392 696217 or emailing hello@dementiaprestwick.co.uk.