The staff of Nationwide International voted to make their final donation to Manx Decaf, the charity which provides support to those with dementia or memory problems.

A donation from staff activities in the company, such as dress-down days and cake sales, resulted in funds of £1,386 being raised, which has been handed over to the charity.

Ian Smith of Nationwide International presented the cheque to members of Manx Decaf when they met for one of their regular lunch gatherings at Douglas Golf Club.

Around 70 people worked for the branch based in St Georges Street, Douglas.

Nikki Sinclair, representing Manx Decaf, said: ’This is a very generous donation from Nationwide and we are very grateful to the company’s staff for choosing us to receive the proceeds of their events.’

She said that the donation would be used to provide valuable support by Manx Decaf which has been in existence for 11 years.

The original café in Douglas was developed by a small team of health and social care staff and has grown considerably. two further café venues have now been running for the last seven years based in Port Erin and Ramsey.

It became a registered charity in 2012.

She added, ’The incidence of dementia in our community is increasing, just as it is across the United Kingdom. Many people find themselves isolated trying to cope with confusion or trying to care for a loved one or close friend whose memory and abilities are slipping away.

"We support people with dementia and memory problems, together with their families, friends and carers, but we are also trying to raise awareness and recognition of dementia and the challenges this condition can provide.’

Each of the three cafés in the Isle of Man is supported on a voluntary basis and as previously mentioned by professional staff, mental health nurses, occupational therapists and social workers from the Departments of Health and Social Care.

Ian Smith said, ’Nationwide International has supported numerous charities with donations over the years, and our staff have always been keen that the money they raise from events at the company should benefit some of the perhaps lesser known charities on the island.

’Manx Decaf was a very popular choice by the Nationwide staff, and we were delighted to choose this charity for the company’s final donation to the community.’

A notice on the Nationwide International website confirms the branch is closed.

When the closure plans were first announced last year, Chris Rhodes, executive director, Group Retail at Nationwide, said: ’We continually review all our operations to ensure our business is run in an efficient way that delivers the best possible value to our members. This was not an easy decision and it was only taken after much careful thought and consideration for our customers and employees.

’The proposal to close Nationwide International is based on a number of factors including demand from customers for its services, volumes of current business, ongoing running costs and its contribution to the wider Nationwide business.

’’It is no longer sustainable for us to continue to operate Nationwide International.’