Care UK’s The Potteries, in Poole, and Ferndown Manor, in Ferndown, are inviting members of the community to their special events as part of The Big Dementia Conversation, a nationwide initiative designed to show people how to better understand common symptoms and live well with the condition.   

While general awareness of the condition has improved, data from Care UK shows two thirds of people who have a relative living with dementia (62%) initially put their symptoms down to old age. Many Brits remain unaware of the ways older people can lead meaningful lives with the condition, prompting Care UK to relaunch its Big Dementia Conversation for the second year running.  

Both homes will be hosting a dedicated Dementia Café, providing a safe and friendly space for individuals affected by dementia, their families and caregivers to connect over coffee and cake, while sharing experiences and seeking support. An engaging activity will be available, and the dementia team will be on-hand to offer advice on how to live well with dementia.

The Potteries’ Dementia Café will be hosted on Wednesday 29th January from 11am-12 noon and will be hosted by team member Caroline Hearne.

Ferndown Manor’s Dementia Café will be held on Wednesday 12th February from 2pm-4pm, and will be hosted by the home’s dementia lead Deborah Thompson.

In addition to the events, the Dorset community can also visit a newly launched online advice hub. The hub includes in-depth conversations with families of people living with dementia, as well as expert advice from Care UK’s dementia specialists to learn how to reduce the risks and symptoms of the condition.   

Zita Turner, Home Manager at The Potteries, said: “Here at The Potteries, we strive to create a sense of belonging within the home and provide a positive impact on the local community by building support systems for our neighbours. The Big Dementia Conversation is a really important initiative, and we’re honoured to be taking part through our Dementia Café. Together with our local community, we can help make Dorset a more dementia-friendly place.”  

Sara Muslin, Home Manager at Ferndown Manor, said: “Places like our Dementia Café are perfect for meeting people going through similar experiences while benefiting from expert advice from our team.  

“We’d like to invite everyone to join in the Big Dementia Conversation by attending our upcoming event – we’re looking forward to welcoming new faces and old friends for a chat over a cup of tea and slice of cake.” 

To find out more about The Potteries, or to book a spot at the Dementia Café, please contact Customer Relations Manager Caroline Hearne, on 01202 139325, or email caroline.hearne@careuk.com

To book a place at the Ferndown Manor event, or to book a spot at the Dementia Café, please contact Customer Relations Manager Robin Hill, on 01202 069371, or email robin.hill@careuk.com

To support people who may be experiencing symptoms of dementia or their loved ones, Care UK has set up a free helpline and advice hub. To find out more, please visit: careuk.com/bigdementiaconversation  

The Potteries and Ferndown Manor have been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives in a luxury environment. The homes provide full-time residential care, nursing care, dementia care and respite care, and also boast plenty of space, both indoors and out, for relaxation and recreation.