June 28, 2025 Events, News

Nationwide Chooses Dementia Carers Respite as Local Charity of the Year

We’re delighted that our local cluster of Nationwide Building Society has chosen Dementia Carers Respite as their Local Charity of the Year. This generous support comes soon after the news that Chiltern Hospital has also selected us for the same honour—two encouraging partnerships that will help us continue providing vital respite for family carers of people living with dementia.

On 11th June 2025, our founder and chairman Walid Marzouk, along with trustee Tim Garnham, met with Nationwide’s Senior Branch Manager Kerry Compton at their High Wycombe branch. Joining them was our patron and much-loved TV personality Eric Knowles. Kerry, who leads Nationwide’s local cluster of branches, shared their commitment to supporting dementia causes, including their ongoing partnership with Dementia UK. Inspired by our mission to support family carers, she made the decision to extend Nationwide’s local support to Dementia Carers Respite.

The meeting was filled with energy, ideas, and excitement—including the bold suggestion of a parachute jump as a potential fundraiser! Kerry also expressed enthusiasm about potentially spreading this support even further across the region.

Plans are now underway for a series of joint fundraising activities and community events to be rolled out over the coming year—and possibly beyond. Both teams are incredibly positive about this new partnership and the difference we can make together. With one shared goal—to provide vital respite for family carers of people living with dementia—we look forward to working side-by-side with Nationwide across the Chilterns and beyond.

If you’d like to support us too, you can:
Donate at https://dementia-respite.org.uk/donate
Or get involved by emailing support@dementia-respite.org.uk

June 18, 2025 Events, News

Another moving and enlightening event for our Chiltern Dementia Friendly Project

On May 15th, in partnership with Wendover Dementia Support, we hosted a moving and enlightening event in Wendover as part of our Chiltern Dementia Friendly Project—a growing initiative from Dementia Carers Respite to build more compassionate, dementia-aware communities in the Chiltern area.

Following the success of our January launch, this latest event brought together carers, families, and supporters for an unforgettable afternoon that both touched hearts and opened minds.
We were honoured to welcome Dr. Pippa Moreton, who delivered an enlightening talk titled “What is Dementia?” Her clear and empathetic explanation of the stages of dementia resonated with many in the room, offering practical and compassionate strategies to help support those living with the condition.

The emotional core of the evening came from special guest Scott Mitchell, who shared the deeply personal journey of his late wife, Dame Barbara Windsor and her battle with dementia. His heartfelt tribute brought many to tears and served as a poignant reminder of the human face of this condition.

The audience stayed well after the talks concluded—asking thoughtful questions, expressing gratitude, and taking time to connect personally with Scott and our speakers.

The Chiltern Dementia Friendly Project continues to grow, helping foster greater awareness, understanding, and support across our community. We’re proud of this important work—but we can’t do it without you. If you’d like to support us, please consider donating at https://dementia-respite.org.uk/donate or get involved as a volunteer by emailing us at support@dementia-respite.org.uk

Together, we can make our community a better place for those living with dementia—and for those who care for them.

May 15, 2025 Events, News

Chiltern Hospital & Dementia Carers Respite

Another great day for Dementia Carers Respite (DCR)and another big mile stone.
Just over one year after an Invitation to No 10 Downing street to The Dementia Reception, we learnt that arguably the best private hospital in Buckinghamshire, The Chiltern Hospital, has selected us as their Charity of the year ( COTY).
On the 9th of May 2025 Walid Marzouk and Trustee Tim Garnham from DCR met with Fraser Dawson, Yin Tso and Lynne Devlin from The Chiltern Hospital.

In a positive spirit, both parties discussed ways of cooperation with some details on potential joint community events and support that the Charity can hope to receive.
This is a big opportunity for our Charity to further strengthen it’s position as a key Local Dementia Charity with the respite it offers to Family Carers. The cooperation also reconfirms The Chiltern Hospital commitment as a Corporate Social responsible organisation supporting local communities.

We are grateful for The Chiltern Hospital’s wonderful staff for selecting us.
If you would like to volunteer please email support@dementia-respite.org.uk

May 4, 2025 Events, News

DCR Celebrity Antiques Valuation Event- With Eric Knowles -Amersham Museum- 3rd June 2025

DCR Celebrity Antiques Valuation Event- With Eric Knowles and other antiques experts. At Amersham Museum- 3rd June 2025- 11-4pm

January 29, 2025 Events, News

Dementia Carers Respite Hosts Hugely Successful Talk on “Introduction to Contented Dementia”

Dementia Carers Respite (DCR) is delighted to announce the success of its recent talk

“Introduction to Contented Dementia,” delivered by the esteemed Michael Rowan. The event, part of the Chiltern Dementia Friendly Project, was held at the White Hill Centre in Chesham on the 28th of January.

Michael Rowan captivated the audience with his insightful presentation, exploring the symptoms of dementia and the lived experience of those diagnosed. He shed light on practical approaches for carers to deepen their understanding of what people with dementia are going through and offered compassionate strategies for providing meaningful support.
The engaging session drew praise from attendees, who found the talk both informative and inspiring. Michael’s ability to connect with the audience ensured a thought-provoking and valuable experience for all present.

Commenting on the event, Mr. Parveiz Aslam MBE, Events Director at DCR, said:
“This is one of many talks we have planned throughout the Chilterns, including regular pop-in sessions. I’m delighted with the response we received at this event. It was heart-warming to hear real-life stories and witness how the public engaged with the session. The positive feedback has truly affirmed the value of these initiatives.”
Dementia Carers Respite would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to the White Hill Centre in Chesham for generously hosting this important event. The organisation also acknowledges the dedication and effort of the DCR trustees, whose support was instrumental in bringing the talk to life.

For more information about Dementia Carers Respite, the Chiltern Dementia Friendly Project, and future events, please contact: https://dementia-respite.org.uk/

December 11, 2024 Dementia Carers Respite News, Events

Dementia Carers Respite Run for Charity: Run to Give Carers the Gift of Rest

Every step you take gets Dementia Carers Respite (DCR) closer to ensuring family carers of people living with dementia have the break they so deeply deserve. Every finish line you cross is a life you change.

Unbelievably in the UK, 45% of people with dementia depend fully on a Family Carer because they do not qualify for NHS or Council support and have no means for the cost of private care. It is where DCR comes in and why we need your help.

Caring for a loved one with dementia is an act of profound love, but it can also be an unrelenting responsibility. The exhaustion, both physical and emotional, can be overwhelming.

Imagine being able to offer family carers—those unsung heroes—a precious moment of rest. A moment to breathe, to recharge, to simply be themselves, knowing their loved one is in the safe hands of professional carer.
This is what Dementia Carers Respite is all about.

Many good charities exist but we are the only charity dedicated to closing the gap, funding respite for family carers so they can continue their vital role with renewed strength and resilience. But we can’t do it alone. We need you.

By signing up for the Dementia Carers Respite Run, you’re not just running you are fighting for the dignity of family carers and the people they love. You’re giving family carers the chance to sustain their love and care without breaking under the weight of it.

DCR have secured amazing and exciting venues for you to run, places that will inspire you as you make a difference. But remember, places are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Use the link below to select your preferred venue and secure your spot today. https://runforcharity.com/dementia-carers-respite/bespoke

If you have a specific venue in mind that isn’t listed, don’t hesitate to reach out to us and we will do our best to make it happen for you. Contact us at support@dementia-respite.org.uk

November 26, 2024 Events, News

4 events in 2 weeks for Dementia Carers Respite Part 1

On the 22^nd and 30^th November

Dementia Carers Respite (DCR) had a wonderful time participating in the Christmas in Chesham event on the 22nd of November. It was a delight to connect with so many people, many of whom shared touching stories and generously donated to support our cause, despite the chilly weather. We are grateful for the warm-hearted community spirit that was shown. A big thank you from the Chairman and the trustees to Katy and Peter Jones who are always willing to support and help whenever they can

If you missed us in Chesham, don’t worry—DCR will also be at the Amersham Christmas Charity festival held at St Michael ‘s Church on Sycamore Road on Saturday 30^th November. We will be there all day and hope to meet as many of you as possible, so come along for a chat. We would love to talk to you about the good work our charity is doing in Buckinghamshire. Your kindness makes a difference

Outside the church is Santa's Grotto where Santa will be waiting, so bring the kids along to meet him and pick up some Christmas goodies from the market stalls. If you can, why not wait and join in with the Christmas lights switch on.

Volunteering for a Charity can be fun, as well as make a difference if you get involved a few times a year for a couple of hours or so. What’s not to like? For more info contact support@dementia-respite.org.uk

Look out for Part 2 to follow next week

September 22, 2024 Events, Uncategorized

Local Triathlon raised £1005 for our Charity

Local Triathlon Veronica Green-Jones raised £1005 for Dementia Carers Respite
On the 17th of September Veronica presented the cheque of the money she raised to Dementia Carers
Respite patron Mr Eric Knowles in a small but select gathering organised by Events Director Parviez
Aslam MBE.
A superhuman effort at Blenheim Palace, She achieved an unbelievable 8 triathlons over day and a
half in June with a total of 5,300m lake swimming, 146km of cycling and c.45km of running.
Veronica said “I really enjoyed the challenge of the Weekend Warrior event, the run from the finish of
one race to the start of the next is not included in the official total running distance, but you certainly
feel it haha!
Choosing Dementia Carers Respite as the Charity of choice was easy. It is a local charity giving much
needed respite to Family Carers left alone to struggle without NHS or council support.”
Walid Marzouk founder & Chair, said “we are deeply grateful for Veronica, every penny raised will
go to support local dementia families. Buckinghamshire needs more Veronicas”

September 10, 2024 Events

Golf & Dinner – Thursday 26th September

Golf & Dinner 26^th September 2024

Following the success of our first golf and dinner day at Harewood downs in October 2023 and by popular request, we will be holding our second such event this year on Thursday the 26^th of September.

Booking for the 4 Ball Tournament is already 45% up on 2023 and Dinner booking is 25% higher making it close to maximum.

Join us if you can….

May 3, 2024 Events

Celebrity Antiques’ Valuation Day – Postponed

We are so disappointed to inform you that due to unforeseen circumstances, the Celebrity Antique Valuation Day at Waddesdon Manor, scheduled for the 20th of June 2024, has been postponed.

We understand that this event was highly anticipated, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. Dementia Carers Respite, our wonderful patron, BBC personality Eric Knowles, along with the dedicated staff at Waddesdon Manor, are wholeheartedly committed to hosting this event. Rest assured; you will be the first to know as soon as a new date is confirmed. Keep a look out for an announcement on this page or our website and really hope that you will still be able to join us.

INVITATION

From Eric Knowles
To anyone interested in antiques

As the proud Patron of this wonderful charity (Dementia Carers Respite), I wish to invite you to a fundraising event where every penny raised will go to give desperately needed respite to dementia family carers who spend 24/7 looking after loved ones.

The Celebrity Antiques' Valuation Day is a ticket-only event (open both to National Trust members and the general public) takes place on the 20th of June 2024 at Waddesdon Manor in Buckinghamshire.

Alongside me, I will have 4 colleagues who are TV personalities and experts in various specialities and ready to hopefully surprise you with the value of the articles you bring.

Valuations will take place from 12.00 to 17.00 at the Stables complex of Waddesdon Manor and it will be for up to 2 items per ticket holder.
Valuation time slots will be given, so for the rest of day you can enjoy the beautiful gardens, visit the house and enjoy a pleasant lunch, or a snack and a drink.

At the Stables complex, you will also have the opportunity to meet expert restorers, bid in a silent auction for a two-night’s stay in a wonderful Grade II house in Cheltenham or simply get a raffle ticket. All the while being serenaded by soft relaxing music.

To buy tickets click here but, if you cannot join us on the day, please make a donation on this site.
For more information on the campaign click here where you can also donate.

This exclusive fundraising event is only possible thanks to the kindness and support from the Waddesdon Manor management team to whom we are hugely grateful.

This is a great opportunity for a lovely day at one of England’s most treasured houses - and much more.

We expect tickets to be in high demand and available only on a first come first serve basis, so book your place now.

Charity Patron and Antiquarian

Eric Knowles