Stroud care home joins The Big Dementia Conversation

A care home in Stroud is calling on local people to take part in a national conversation to learn more about dementia.

On Wednesday 21^st February, from 2.30pm-4pm, Care UK’s Scarlet House on Westward Road is inviting members of the community for a special event as part of The Big Dementia Conversation – a nationwide initiative designed to encourage people to talk about dementia, including some of the most difficult topics associated with the condition.

According to a recent survey, commissioned by Care UK, eight in ten adults believe dementia is still misunderstood, with 69 percent of the nation believing it’s a subject which is not talked about enough in society. Many people also admit finding the condition uncomfortable to discuss – something Care UK is hoping to change by launching The Big Dementia Conversation. 

The Carers Café, which runs on the third Wednesday of each month at Scarlet House, will provide attendees with an opportunity to meet new people in similar situations, share experiences with one another and gain advice and support from the home’s expert team. 

The session will be led by special guest Dr Jennifer Bute, a retired GP living with dementia and founder of Glorious Opportunity, a resource platform providing support to those living with dementia. Jennifer will share her own experiences and tips for supporting loved ones on their journey.

In addition to the event, the Stroud community can also visit a newly launched online advice hub. The hub takes a closer look at some of the less-talked-about symptoms of dementia, with expert advice from Care UK’s dementia specialists, who have more than 40 years of experience providing care for people living with the condition.  

Suzannah Tullett, Home Manager at Scarlet House, said: “Here at Scarlet House, we’ve seen first-hand the benefits of learning from one another and the difference this has on the everyday lives of carers looking after a loved one. Whether it's team members talking to relatives, or relatives talking to one another, finding support in others who face similar challenges can be a transformative experience. 

“That’s why we’re delighted to be hosting our carers café, which for this event, will provide a great opportunity for carers to meet other members of the community who may also be supporting their loved ones living with dementia. Caring for a loved one can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but can also feel frustrating and isolating, which is why it is important carers take care of themselves by seeking the support of others in similar circumstances. 

“We’re looking forward to welcoming family carers, from all backgrounds to our carers café – I’m sure these afternoons will be incredibly helpful to many, and we’d encourage those interested to book their place and avoid missing out.”

To find out more about Care UK’s Big Dementia Conversation initiative, please visit: careuk.com/thebigdementiaconversation   

Scarlet House is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia, and short-term respite care. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.