DEMENTIA is a devastating disease that changes lives - not only those with the disease themselves, but whole families. When my mother was first diagnosed we did not know where to turn – we needed as much help as she did.

Admiral Nurses – trained and supported by the charity ‘for dementia’ (www.fordementia.org.uk) - provide invaluable specialist support throughout the long journey of dementia.

I would like to invite your readers to help me help more families by making Time for a Cuppa on February 1, 2010. On that day we will be holding a nationwide tea-party to raise money to expand the services that Admiral Nurses provide, both on the ground and via the national helpline Admiral Nursing DIRECT.

Every £15 you raise will mean one more family can access help from Admiral Nurses. So, go on, join me on February 1, 2010 and take time out and make Time for a Cuppa. Check out our website at www.timeforacuppa.org.uk and request your fundraising pack. If you register before December 1 you could win a slap up Tea for Two at the Ritz!

Try your hand at The Times 2 Time for a Cuppa crossword – or bake some Time for a Cuppa special recipe Cuppa-Cakes!

Find out more in your Time for a Cuppa Fundraising Pack and via our web site - www.timeforacuppa.org.uk.

FIONA PHILLIPS Patron of Time for a Cuppa? day On behalf of for dementia Camden High Street London