Bringing Joy, Connection, and Stimulation: Join the Ash Memory Lane MCST Sessions
Age UK Surrey is inviting local residents to experience the warmth and benefits of the Ash Memory Lane MCST Sessions – a welcoming, weekly social group designed specifically for people living with mild to moderate dementia. These sessions are being held weekly, from July 2025, in the Benson Room at Japonica Court on Shawfield Road.
Held every Thursday from 10:30 am to 12:15 pm, these Memory Lane Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (MCST) sessions offer more than just a chance to socialise. They provide meaningful activities that help boost thinking, memory, and well-being in a supportive environment.
Run by trained facilitators, the sessions include fun and engaging topics such as current affairs, reminiscence, music, creative activities, and gentle exercise. They are carefully designed to encourage conversation, confidence, and companionship.
Why join a Memory Lane MCST Session?
Research shows that MCST can improve the quality of life and cognitive function for people with dementia. Just as importantly, these sessions are a chance for participants to enjoy themselves, form friendships, and feel part of a community that understands and supports them.
A carer said:
“My husband looks forward to the sessions every week. It’s a place where he feels accepted, valued, and stimulated. And I get a couple of hours to recharge, knowing he’s in safe hands.”
How to take part
Pre-booking is essential, sessions cost £20 to attend.t. To find out more or to refer someone, please contact Age UK Surrey at:
📞 01483 503414
📧 enquiries@ageuksurrey.org.uk
🌐 Visit the Age UK Surrey website
Thursdays, 10.30 am to 12.15 pm. At the Benson Room, Japonica Court, Shawfield Road, Ash, Guildford, GU12 6QU
What is MCST?
Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (MCST) is a weekly one- to two-hour-long programme for people living with mild to moderate dementia. Group members take part in meaningful and stimulating activities, proven to help maintain memory and mental functioning. The groups provide a fun, supportive environment where people can build new friendships. Activities include discussions, word games, quizzes, physical activities as well as creative and musical activities.
What is the impact of MCST?
Age UK’s MCST programme was found to have improved or slowed the decline of the cognitive abilities of people living with mild to moderate dementia. It also improved their overall well-being. Clients, carers and staff saw a range of improvements in clients’ cognition and a range of other behaviours.
Also at Milford and Mytchett
MILFORD: Mondays and Thursdays, 11.00 am – 12.30 pm at The Clockhouse Community Centre, Chapel Lane, Milford, GU8 5EZ.
CLICK HERE to find out about Milford Memory Lane Sessions
MYTCHETT: Tuesdays, 10.30 am to 12.15 pm. At The Mytchett Centre, 140 Mytchett Rd, Mytchett, Camberley GU16 6AA