ExxonMobil Fawley funding helps establish vital support hub for the Waterside Dementia Care Hub

ExxonMobil Fawley has donated more than £9,500 to an initiative that will help hundreds of people living with dementia access essential wellbeing support.

The petrochemical complex contributed the sum to the Waterside Dementia Care Hub (WDCH) to establish a dedicated support hub in Hythe.

The WDCH works to improve the lives of people with dementia, as well as their care partners, families and friends. The hub hosts weekly Dementia Drop-Ins, aiming to reduce loneliness and isolation under the guidance of volunteers and professionals from dementia services.

Thanks to ExxonMobil Fawley’s funding, they will also be able to attend regular wellbeing groups, providing a much-needed social space that gives people with dementia independence from their carers, while offering those carers vital respite.

“There is a real gap in post-diagnostic support for dementia across the Waterside, one that leaves too many families struggling in silence,” said Alex Herring, Centre Manager, at Waterside Dementia Care Hub.

“Around 90% of our current members had received little or no support after diagnosis, until they heard about The Dementia Care Hub. This donation from ExxonMobil Fawley enables us to reach even more people with meaningful, research-led support. We also plan to employ local people to help deliver it, keeping the focus community driven. This is an initiative that will change lives.”

Dr Kellyn Lee, Founder of The Dementia Care Hub, added, “A dementia diagnosis can change everything for individuals and families alike. Whilst we can’t alter the disease, we can transform the experience of living with it. ExxonMobil’s support allows us to bring our evidence-based approach to the Waterside, empowering carers to care for themselves, make informed decisions, and plan with confidence.”

To mark the occasion, Sarah Tancock, Engineering Manager at ExxonMobil Fawley, visited the Waterside Hub to meet with people living with dementia, support workers, and volunteers to learn more about the vital support they provide. 

“Support networks like this make a real difference to the lives of the people in the Waterside, and it’s been fantastic to meet those actively involved in driving positive change and supporting our community”, said Sarah.

“The Waterside Dementia Hub reflects the kind of care that’s needed, offering emotional support, dignity, and connection. It’s been our privilege to be involved in such an essential initiative, and we look forward to seeing it flourish.”

• For more information about the Waterside Dementia Care Hub, please visit: www.dementiacarehub.org
• For more information on ExxonMobil Fawley, please visit: www.exxonmobil.co.uk