Ealing Crafters Urged To Support Local Charity

Appeal for more twiddle mats to help dementia sufferers


Example of twiddle mat - Dementia Concern

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An appeal's gone out for any Ealing crafters to help create special fabric items for people suffering Dementia.

Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of conditions affecting the brain. The Alzheimer’s Society reports that the number of people living with the condition in the UK will rise to over one million by 2025. Rates of diagnosis are improving but many people with dementia are thought to still be undiagnosed.


Alzheimer's Society


‘Twiddle mitts’ are knitted mittens or hand warmers with beads, buttons and objects sewn on to them. Having something to ‘twiddle’ can help calm agitation and restlessness which are both common symptoms of the condition.

Dementia Link Workers who work in partnership with the NHS and Dementia Concern in Ealing are hoping more of the handmade goods can soon be distributed to their clients. During the first lockdown the colourful products donated locally were said to have really helped with anxiety that many were experiencing. 

Dementia worker, Geraldine Ambrose Vanderpuye said: '' I’m pleased to say the response was amazing, the quality of the Mitts and Mats was outstanding, so much thought went into every one we received. They have all gone to grateful recipients and we are now appealing again for more to be distributed in our Christmas Gift bags currently being put together by Santa’s little helpers at Dementia Concern.

"I am asking any wonderful knitters/crafters (and haveagoers) for some small Twiddle Mats to rest on someone’s lap, about the size of a regular cushion cover, Knitted or Fabric with some interesting things to fiddle about with (sewn on very securely.) Even small knitted animals or teddies would be just as welcome, it will be a great way of using up any odd bits of wool or fabric scraps.''

Some instructions on how to make muffs can be found here and mats here.

The mats and mitts can be dropped off at Dementia Concern.

 Deadline for donations is 17-18 December with gift bags distributed on 19 December.

223 Windmill Road, Ealing W5 4DJ

020 8568 4448 (ask for Joy or Linda B)

Annemarie Flanagan

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2 December 2020

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