Visitors, residents, and staff from
St Ives House, a Care South care home near Ringwood, cycled 200 miles on a static bike, raising money to support the research of the Alzheimer’s Society.
Throughout September, which is Dementia Awareness Month, the home set itself a target to cycle a total distance of 200 miles across a ‘virtual’ New Forest in the reception area, using decorations and pictures to create a woodland theme.
The cycle was arranged to ‘ride for research’, raising awareness of dementia research and fundraising in aid of the work of the Alzheimer’s Society, a leading charity supporting those living with dementia.
Over the month, staff from St Ives House, residents, and a handful of visitors to the home all took part to add miles to the total distance. Star cyclist Dan Banks, a Care Team Leader at St Ives House, contributed a total of 90 miles to the route.
Staff from the AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust team participated in the cycle when they visited the home for an activity session with the residents. Care South has been a partner of the AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust for nine years and recently announced another three seasons working with the Trust, enabling residents to be involved in a variety of activities.
St Ives House reached its 200-
mile target, raising £365 in the process, with donations still ongoing.
Emma Cotton, Manager of St Ives House, said: “Keeping active is good for the mind and body, and we encourage residents to participate in light exercise and sports when they can. This initiative is a fun way of doing light activity in support of a good cause, whilst also creating a group exercise for all to enjoy. We’re proud to support the vital research into dementia and look forward to supporting the Alzheimer’s Society in future with other fundraising initiatives and events.”
Care South, a not-for-profit leading provider of residential and care at home services across the south of England which owns and operates St Ives House, is committed to supporting dementia research and support groups. Through the Care South 
2020 Chairman’s Fund, £3,000 has been donated to Ringwood and Bransgore Dementia Action Group, a volunteer group committed to developing a Dementia Friendly Community, raising awareness and understanding throughout the community. Other care homes within Care South have supported the work of dementia charities, including Talbot View in Bournemouth, which collectively walked one million steps over summer to raise awareness and funds for Dementia UK.
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