A DETERMINED mother-of-two has vowed to raise thousands of pounds to fund a new dementia support group after being shocked by the limited number of similar services across the borough.

Lillette Ebrahim-Khan, said the loved-ones of dementia-sufferers across Redbridge are not getting the help they need to cope with the stress and uncertainty caused by the condition.

The 52 year-old decided to raise more than £5,000 for the Alzheimer's Society by organising sponsored 'Memory walks' from Wanstead, South Woodford and Woodford Station to Churchfields Park.

The cash would be used to pay for a specialist 'Admiral Nurse' to visit the borough monthly and host a clinic at South Woodford library for people in need of advice or reassurance.

The walks will be held simulateously from 10am on Saturday, September 26.

Mrs Ebrahim-Khan, who manages Palm Nursing Home in Glengall Road, Woodford Green, said the service is desperately needed.

She said: "It's so important that the families of people suffering from dementia get help.

"It can be really traumatic and stressful for people, particularly young people who don't really understand it.

"Dementia can completely change the personality of the person involved, which is very hard for people to cope with.

"We and others would like more resources being given to dementia services in Redbridge especially and may be around the parts of the country.

"Some boroughs are still ticking boxes when developing care for dementia and helping their family."

"I hope to raise the money we need to start this new group, because it will make such a difference for people."

Her husband Rashid, who runs another care home in Cambridge Park, Wanstead, has backed the campaign.

He said: "There are a lot of people who have problems who are not getting the support they need at the moment."

Maggie Owolade of the Alzheimer's Society praised Mrs Ebrahim-Khan for her efforts.

She said: "We are so pleased to hear about Lillette's generous donation.

"The Alzheimer's Society works hard supporting people with dementia and their carers in Redbridge but there is a real shortage of services.

"Lillette's money will help our plans to extend our much needed support to more people in Redbridge."

Ms Owolade said that in addition to Mrs Ebrahim-Khan's event, the charity was also holding a sponsored walk this Sunday at Hainault Forest Country Park at 11am. People can sign up on the day.

To get involved in the walk's planned by Mrs Ebrahim-Khan, or to make a donation to her campaign, visit: justgiving.com/lilletteEbrahimkhan.