A LIFE-CHANGING dementia zone that offers craft classes and bingo has been opened by the Lord Lieutenant of County Durham.

The Arcade facility at Age UK Darlington’s headquarters, which also includes a shower and treatment room, was funded by a £25,000 donation from the NHS.

Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College and the Darlington Inner Wheel Club also helped fundraise.

Lord Lieutenant Sue Snowdon said: “This is such a terrific service - the facility has been completely transformed.

“It is very humbling to be asked to come and do this. It is a great privilege to be here and see the work that the team has done.

“People who have dementia need a very special care and they get so much pleasure when they come here."

Gillian Peel, chief executive of Age UK Darlington, said: “The new rooms have been done to the highest specification possible.

“We are all absolutely thrilled.”

Pat Keller, who volunteers on Thursdays, said the improvements were ‘excellent’ and would make a huge difference.

She added: “Everyone loves the bingo and games - so much so they sit in there all day.”

The Darlington team are also celebrating the one year anniversary of Good Friends, a scheme that helps elderly people combat loneliness.

More than 300 people are supported by nearly 700 volunteers, who help with daily tasks, shopping trips and gardening.

Mrs Snowdon added: “Good Friends has improved the quality of life for elderly people.

“We should never underestimate what a positive difference a bright smile can make.

“I hope that the service has a long-term future.”

Jenny Leeming, dementia support worker at Darlington Alzheimer’s Society, said: “We are more than happy to signpost people here. It is a completely unique facility.

“Without it people would stop engaging – it has been a great asset.”

Ninety-five per cent of Good Friends recipients said that increased friendship and social activities has had a positive impact of their general well-being.

A spokesman for Age UK said: “A simple gesture once or twice a week can make all the difference to a vulnerable person.

“If we can set a precedent now by getting neighbours of all ages talking and caring for each other then we will set an example for future generations.”