“I had worked in sheltered housing for over 10 years and felt it was time for a new adventure, I had worked closely with BIA through my role as a Scheme Manager and liked their ethos.

"My nan had sadly died with dementia and knew the challenges families faced caring for a loved one who are living with dementia. I was informed about the role as a dementia support worker and felt that it would be the perfect role for me as I wanted to offer support, guidance and help families have a much-needed break for a few hours per day as I knew first-hand just how much that’s needed. 

"The centres are such a Friendly welcoming place where everyone is made to feel special. Everyone who comes through the door each day are happy to be there and always leaves with a smile on their face. 

"I was promoted to the Dementia Centre Coordinator over two years ago and now my role is to oversee all the day-to-day running of the centres and manage staff.”

“I can truthfully say I get so much job satisfaction and it’s so rewarding just seeing all those happy faces each day and knowing what a difference the centres make to each client’s and their family members wellbeing. I have defiantly found my vocation in life. I never have the Monday blues as I always look forward to going to the centre to see everyone. All the volunteers that support during the week are amazing and without their support and dedication the centres wouldn’t be able to run as smoothly as they do.

“If anyone knows someone who is living with dementia and would benefit from attending one of our centres, they can contact me direct or call the main office for more information.”

Sharon Toy

“Sharon is so wonderful with all our clients at the centres. She treats them like family. She is so Kind, Caring and passionate about her work with Birmingham Irish Association. She is a great Manager and friend to not only myself but everyone around.” – Samantha Ataria (Dementia Support Worker)

"Sharon does an amazing job running all of the dementia centres and is always coming up with new activities and incorporating world events that we can celebrate with the clients. She always has a smile on her face and is lovely to work with. She’s a wonderful asset to the Birmingham Irish team, keep up the great work!" – Emma McGrath (Health Enablement Team)

“Since Sharon has taken up the role as Dementia Centre Coordinator I have been lucky enough to work very closely with her over the years. Sharon is extremely organised, a lot of people do not see the hard work that goes into running the centres every day. We would be having an Easter party and she will be thinking of activities and decorations to sort out for our Christmas parties (she really is always thinking ahead).

Sharon is a people person, she will always help; make time and care for everyone around her. Currently running Dementia centres across the whole of Birmingham, we are so lucky to have Sharon. It is a pleasure to work with such a wonderful person.” – Sinead McTernan (Culture, Sport & Heritage Project Officer)

Welcome to another Birmingham Irish Association news update

We publish news and project updates keeping you up to date with details regarding our services and events, as well as other local developments and other news that will be of interest to our clients as well as other visitors.