This week, we opened the doors of the British Legion in Knowle for a special Dementia Awareness and Support Event – and what a brilliant morning it turned out to be.
With Dementia Action Week just around the corner, this was a chance to bring our local community together, create space for important conversations, and offer support to anyone affected by memory loss or dementia. Whether someone was living with dementia themselves, supporting a loved one, or simply wanted to better understand the condition, everyone was welcome – and it was lovely to see so many people come through the doors.
A closer look at dementia
As people arrived, they were greeted with warm smiles (and plenty of tea, coffee and cake!) before settling in for the session. Jo Cleary, our Learning and Development Manager here at Unique Senior Care, led an incredibly informative and engaging workshop that gave everyone a clearer understanding of what dementia really is.
Jo started by walking us through the different types of dementia – including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia – and explained which parts of the brain are affected in each case. Using simple, relatable examples, she showed how damage in different areas of the brain can result in different behaviours, emotions or challenges in day-to-day life.
One of the most thought-provoking parts of the session was a practical activity that challenged our beliefs about what someone with dementia can and can’t do. It’s easy to make assumptions, even with the best of intentions, and Jo gently encouraged us all to think differently – and more positively – about people’s capabilities. She also shared real-life examples of common scenarios, and walked us through simple but effective ways to respond with empathy and reassurance.
Throughout the morning, people had the chance to ask questions, share experiences, and take part in relaxed conversations that really helped to break down the fear and stigma that can often surround dementia. There was a real sense of togetherness in the room – and lots of moments where people visibly relaxed as they realised they weren’t alone in what they’d been feeling.
Community support and local services
Alongside Jo’s session, we were lucky to be joined by a range of local organisations who had stalls set up throughout the space. This meant that anyone who attended could chat one-on-one with professionals, pick up useful leaflets, and get signposted to services and support that might be helpful to them.
Organisations including Age UK, Admiral Nurses, social prescribers, Solihull Council’s Adult Social Care team, the Alzheimer’s Society and Carers Trust Solihull were all there on the day. Each one brought their own special insight and resources, helping visitors better understand what support is available locally at every stage of the dementia journey.
Whether someone needed information about benefits, guidance on accessing care, or just someone to talk to, these friendly faces were on hand to listen, guide and connect people with services that could really make a difference.
We know how overwhelming it can feel when you’re facing a new diagnosis or unsure where to turn for help, and it was lovely to see people leave the event feeling a little lighter, with more clarity and confidence than when they arrived.
There were also refreshments available on the day, including tea, coffee and a small selection of cakes for those who kindly made a donation. All funds raised will go to Alzheimer’s Society and Dementia UK – two charities doing vital work to support those living with dementia, and to fund ongoing research and care initiatives.
Ongoing help and next steps
We’re proud to have been able to host an event like this and bring together so many local voices and services in one place. While events like this are a great way to learn and connect, we also understand that every family’s journey with dementia is different, and sometimes a little extra help is needed.
That’s where professional care can make all the difference. Having trained Caregivers who understand the condition and can offer consistent, compassionate support at home can help people live well with dementia for longer – and offer peace of mind to family members too. It’s something we hope to do more of in the future – because the more open and connected our community is, the better the experience can be for those living with dementia and the people around them.
If you missed the event but would still like support or information, don’t worry. The Knowle and Dorridge Memory Café runs every Tuesday from 10:30am to 12:30pm at Dorridge Methodist Church, and it’s a lovely, welcoming space for anyone affected by memory loss or dementia. Whether you’re popping in for a cuppa and a chat, looking for advice, or simply want to meet others who understand what you’re going through, you’ll always be met with warmth and understanding.
We also run the Leamington Spa & Kenilworth Memory Café, which takes place at Cubbington Village Hall every Tuesday from 10:00am to 12:00pm. This is another great opportunity for individuals and families to come together, share experiences, and access friendly support in a relaxed setting.
Thank you for joining us
We’d also like to say a big thank you to Jo for leading such an insightful session, and to all the organisations who took time out of their busy schedules to be part of the day. Events like this really do show how powerful it can be when we come together with a shared goal of supporting others.
To everyone who joined us: thank you for coming. And if you’re just starting to look for help or don’t know where to begin, please know that you’re not on your own. There is help out there and if you’d like any help navigating this journey, please get in touch.
Chloe joined us in early 2024 as our content manager. Having earned a first-class degree in digital marketing and spending more than six years in public relations, she’s well-placed to shape informative content and heartfelt stories that help inform our clients and connect them with the care they need.
Having worked across a multitude of different industries before care, Chloe’s passion lies in the meaningfulness of her work – from creating content that guides clients through their care journey to helping Caregivers find a rewarding new role.
At Unique, Chloe finds fulfilment in our supportive culture and the heart-warming stories from both clients and carers that highlight the impact of our services.
