Dementia Connections Café launches at West Hall care home

West Hall care home in Surrey has launched its Dementia Connections Café, a new monthly community initiative designed to support people living with dementia, as well as their carers and loved ones.

The initiative, a partnership between West Hall, Home Instead and Surrey County Council, welcomed visitors for tea, conversation and support in what will become a monthly meeting place.

The café welcomed attendees who shared stories and formed connections whilst enjoying refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere. It runs every third Tuesday of the month and offers regular support for those caring for loved ones with dementia.

Visitors benefited from chats with dementia specialists on hand to offer practical advice. A special highlight for many was Jackson, the friendly companion dog, whose gentle nature brought smiles to everyone's faces. The launch was attended by Councillor Amanda Boote, who praised the initiative as "a much-needed resource for the local community" and spoke with several families about their experiences.

Paula Rifai, General Manager at West Hall care home, said:

It was wonderful to see the community come together for conversation and laughter at the café launch. Our residents thoroughly enjoyed connecting with new faces from the local area, and many visitors told us this was exactly the kind of support they'd been looking for. The simple act of sharing a cup of tea with others who understand the dementia journey can make a real difference, and we’re excited to welcome even more members of the community to join us in the months ahead.

Hamish MacDonald, Community Engagement Manager at Home Instead, said:

It's all about our community and finding ways of supporting those living in it! That is the question that three local organisations asked themselves some months ago when searching for effective ways of supporting the local community, particularly those in later life.

The outcome of the discussions, combined with some investment of time and resource, culminated in the launch today of our Dementia Connections Café. Blessed by the weather, and a stunning location and gardens at West Hall, it was incredibly rewarding to witness those living with dementia together with their loved ones sharing lively conversation with a host of local support organisations over a coffee and delicious cake!

We have started the journey of creating friendships and partnerships and we hope that the news will spread of our ability to connect people to the support they need. A special thank you to Amanda Boote for attending the cafe on her very first day as the newly elected Mayor!

Amanda Boote, Mayor of Woking, said:

I was truly honoured for my first appointment as the new Mayor of Woking to be at the opening of the new Dementia Connections Café at West Hall Care Home. The sun shone beautifully, and it was lovely to see so many people attending, both residents and visitors. 

I was really impressed with the work that has been done by Hamish McDonald and the team at Home Instead, Paula Rifai and the team at Anchor and West Hall, as well as Surrey County Council.

The Dementia Connections Café is free to attend, and places can be confirmed here. The next session will be held on the 17th of June from 10:00-11:30am. 

For more information about West Hall care home, please click here.