The Brett Young Centre in Halesowen is set to benefit from a suite of new specialist equipment thanks to the hard work of two local businesses.

Businesses AMES Group and Grosvenor Mobility undertook the gruelling Three Peaks Challenge in June last year, dressed as the Peaky Blinders. The 13 strong team made up of businesses in the Black Country and Bromsgrove raised £9,300 for the council run centre that supports those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.

Over 72 hours the group tackled the highest mountains of England, Scotland and Wales, scaling Ben Nevis, Scaffell Pike and Snowdon, conquering 26 miles and a total ascent of 9,800ft during the 3 day challenge.

Thanks to their hard work, the two businesses were able to purchase new dining chairs, a specialist support chair and a rise and recline chair with the money raised and they will be presenting these to the centre in the presence of the Mayor and Mayoress of Dudley on Friday 22 February. Alan Read, MD AMES Group Ltd said:

"This was an absolutely incredible experience which AMES Group Ltd are humbled to have taken part in, and we are proud to say that we have managed to raise just over £7000 for the Brett Young Gateway.

"We first knew we wanted to get involved during a pub conversation in which we realised that all of us have had a loved one who has experienced dementia. AMES Group Ltd wanted to do our part to give back to the local community and let suffers and carers of dementia know that they are not alone.”

Dudley Council runs two dementia gateways – Brett Young Centre in Halesowen and The Crystal Gateway in Brierley Hill. The gateways offer information and advice to support people diagnosed with dementia, their families and carers. They offer preventative services along with day respite and long-term support, which can include day sessions at the gateways. Councillor Cathryn Bayton, cabinet member for adult social care added:

"Our dementia gateways provide an invaluable service to people living with dementia, their families and carers. The practical support, professional knowledge and genuine understanding not only of the condition, but the impact it can have on all members of a family is what makes them such important services.

"We’re incredibly grateful to the teams from Ames Group and Grosvenor Mobility for choosing to support the Brett Young Gateway through this challenge and I’m certain the donation of this specialist equipment will really benefit users of the centre.”

To find out more about the dementia gateways and what support may be available for a loved one, you can contact 01384 816039 or go to the Dudley Council website.