Skipton Swimarathon money for Alzheimer’s Association

It needs additional funding to expand and to support carers for those with dementia.

The charity relies solely on its own fundraising activities to provide core services, which cost about £25,000 per annum.

‘In these worrying times of uncertainty we all need something to look forward to and the Swimarathon certainly plays an important part in maintaining our community spirit,’ said Skipton Swimarathon chairman Nick Guillemette.

‘We are still planning on taking to the pool in October, circumstances allowing, and I think people would like a fun and worthwhile event to focus on right now.’

The event is scheduled for 7 to 11 October.

GAA’s core services include providing social activity, education, support and respite care at home for carers.

‘The work of the GAA is vital to our small community and we believe will be a cause that will touch many islanders. On average, 20% of us will suffer some form of dementia as we grow older and place strain on our families,’ Mr Guillemette said.

Respite care for carers is offered by GAA where experienced carers sit in and look after the loved one for several hours, giving the usual carer a break.

With Skipton Swimarathon’s support, the charity hopes to identify, train and provide extra sitting staff to meet increasing demand on its services from an ageing population.

‘We are delighted to have been chosen as the beneficiary of the 2020 Skipton Swimarathon. This funding will enable us to expand our sitters service to a greater number of carers who have a loved one suffering with dementia,’ said GAA manager Julie Thompson.

In Guernsey, the number of people with dementia is estimated to be 1,250 with numbers rising.

‘The demand on our charity has steadily increased since we established in 2009 and we have now reached capacity with many more on our waiting list,’ she said.

‘With the support of the public through this event we hope to be able to double the number of people we currently have working with the charity to offer more families the support they need.’

Skipton Swimarathon broke its fundraising record last year and raised more than £60,000 towards local charities in the Bailiwick.

Since 1977 the Swimarathon has raised more than £1,500,000 for local good causes.

. The GAA has produced a short video, viewable at tinyurl.com/vbhxl4q, to raise awareness of the impacts of dementia.