Latest Article from Debenham Parish Magazine
Recently I have been helping with applying for funding for our “Flexible Respite Carer Support” initiative and the application form asks about the purpose of The Debenham Project and the services it provides. When it was set up it was simply put as “Dementia – Caring for the Carers” and that remains its primary focus. But what does that mean in practice? Is it just about providing a range of information, activities, groups and services or is there something deeper – something very special? My reply is overwhelmingly YES. And lies in the answer to the question “Who Cares for the Carers”. It is our many volunteers who unconditionally give not just of their time and energy, but also their personal love and friendship. They are all truly wonderful.
I’d like to tell you about just one of them – Steve – who joined the Project more than 10 years ago – a born comedian with a heart of gold and a wealth of entertaining stories of his life as chef, fancy goods salesman, musician, etc., etc. He initially helped with Carers Club, then driving, and then took on the Coopersfield Lunch Club. A natural people person – He is what the Project is all about – breakfasts and outings with Len, best friend to Garry, cooking 20 odd lunches – Getting on and doing – Ask him why and he’ll reply, “I just love it”.
Since Steve and Angie moved to Stradbroke we don’t see as much of him at Carers Club, and he has decided to retire from driving, but will still be head chef and bottle washer of the Lunch Club. A bit like me, he is stepping back a little to help in other ways in Stradbroke.
Thank you, Steve, for all you have given to The Debenham Project, and especially for your friendship – It means a lot.
With my very best wishes, Lynden
Visit to The Hut, Felixstowe 2025
We – 38 Project friends – had a lovely day out again, this year – weather favourable, Prosecco and orange juice welcome drink enjoyed, fish and chips excellent , strawberries and ice cream, perfect! A game of ‘Hoy’ lead by Steve Robbins, singing led by Karen Walsh, and a trip along the prom for anyone who would like to go, until the shower came! – and then chocolate cake, to celebrate Audrey’s birthday! All made for a day full of fun and friendship.
Thank you to all volunteers, for driving, setting up the room, serving lunch and drinks, packing up at the end of the day – it isn’t possible without you. Thank you to all guests for joining in, some for the 8th year, some for the first time – I hope you’ll come along again next year!
Thank you to Debenham Co-op for support and to all whose donations contribute to the cost of our annual outing.
Joy Walton – The Debenham Project
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