A Syston community café is topping off a successful first year supporting people with dementia and their carers by hosting a special Christmas event.
Timeless Connections Café opened last year and offers a safe, friendly space for conversation, advice and companionship.
It has been established through a collaboration between NHS Social Prescriber, Raj Chavdra, and Leicestershire County Council Local Area Coordinator, Michelle McWeeney.
Liz, a carer who attends the café, said: “This group is so important. It helped me know that I’m not alone and that there’s support available. It’s also given us a safe environment to meet people.”
The café has welcomed around 70 people and has been set up in response to a growing need for dementia-friendly support in Syston.
Leicestershire County Council Local Area Coordinator, Michelle McWeeney, said: “Dementia is one of the biggest health challenges we face and staying socially connected is proven to help maintain wellbeing and slow decline. By creating a welcoming space, we’re helping people live well for longer and reducing isolation.”
Timeless Connections is a shining example of what makes Leicestershire special. People looking out for one another is what knits our communities together. Dementia doesn’t just affect individuals but touches entire families and communities.
This café gives people a place to feel understood and supported in what matters. I want to say a huge thank you to all volunteers, local businesses, and residents who have made this possible during the year.
Person:Councillor Michael Squires, cabinet member for health
The café runs every Thursday from 1pm to 3.30pm at the Hub Café on Upper Church Street, Syston. For £3, visitors enjoy unlimited drinks and biscuits in a friendly, safe environment.
Visit our Healthy Leicestershire Facebook page to watch a video about the event. More information about Local Area Coordination is available on the website.
If you support someone aged 18 or over who wouldn’t be able to manage everyday life without you, and you’re not paid to do it, you are an unpaid carer. Find out more on our dedicated website.