A WOMAN whose mother died of dementia is setting up a support group for carers.

Mary Sherwood hopes the Newton Abbot Dementia Carer Network will help anyone who has had experience of the disease by providing a way to meet others in a similar position.

The monthly sessions start on April 6 at St Joseph’s Church hall.

Mary explained: ‘As a full time worker, I cared for my mother who had vascular dementia.

‘This gave me an insight into the impact dementia has on everyone the person comes into contact with.

‘Recognising that some carers are at risk to their own health and well being and that more working adults are caring for the elderly than children, I wanted to help in some way.’

Mary’s efforts began by offering support in the workplace itself and she ran a two-year pilot project with the Met Office in Exeter where she set up a carer network while also studying the principles of dementia care.

Following this, she created 4 Dementia Carers to promote support for working carers.

She has also set up a monthly network group within Teignbridge Council.

The April 6 meeting will run between 12.30pm and 2pm, tea and coffee will be available.

While it is free to attend, anyone who wants to can make a donation towards the hire of the hall.