To take the stigma out of Dementia and enable people to network with others in a similar situation. Many carers experience social isolation and this is especially true when caring for someone with a dementia type illness. The MASE helps to reduce this problem and the Carers themselves are able to exchange telephone numbers and build up a network of friends who are in similar situations. Transport is provided to bring people into the Groups.

The success of the MASE would not be possible without the regular commitment of local volunteers. Some are professionals from Health, Social Care or other third sector organisations, many are actually Carers, who have perhaps lost their love one and who find great reward by bringing their wealth of knowledge and understanding to others in a similar situation. We encourage people who have lost a loved one to keep attending the Groups to maintain friendships and help to ease their loneliness.

Carers regularly express how much they enjoy attending the MASE and the difference it has made to their lives. There is something for them to look forward to which helps with emotional well being and can avoid depression. Many carers initially appear low and stressed and see their future as bleak and lonely but meeting and chatting to others at the MASE can put a different light on things, particularly with the network of supportive friendships that are formed.