Memory Matters, a carers' education course developed by Hampshire Elderly Mental Health Services, is about to resume in Winchester, and people who care for someone with memory problems are being given the chance to take part.

"The object is to help carers understand more about different types of memory problems their relatives may be suffering," explained James Wilson, a community mental health nurse with West Hampshire NHS Trust, who runs the course.

"We explore the impact memory problems can have on sufferers, carers and families and also help guide people through the various services, benefits and treatments available."

Memory Matters has the support of the Alzheimer's Society and social services and is run by qualified and experienced professionals including nurses, doctors, occupational therapists, psychologists, and social workers.

It runs one afternoon a week for seven weeks, at St Waleric Coachhouse, Park Road, Winchester - where the Alzheimer's Society meets - with sessions lasting around two hours.

Plans for similar courses are under way for carers in Eastleigh Andover and Southampton.

The next Winchester-based Memory Matters course begins on Wednesday, February 19th. Carers are asked to register their interest in taking part. For more details, contact James Wilson on 01962-841941.