Big Day at the Cafe

Story: Laura Pearce

'Dementia? Welcome! Cafe' is a place for local people with memory difficulties and their carers to come together to chat and share experiences in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.

Refreshments are always available and the cafe is open to anyone every Wednesday, 11am-1pm at the Furnival in Pitsmoor. Alongside this weekly service, the Cafe has begun to host bigger events.

On the 10th November 2010, the Furnival was brimming with noise and excitement as people of all ages came together to enjoy a fun day of activities and socialising. It was the Dementia? Welcome! Cafe's very first 'big day' of free fun and food. Here are some words from volunteer Fran:

"Running the Big Day in November was a fantastic experience for all involved. As a new volunteer it enabled me to see the importance of running the Cafe in Burngreave and how such a reliable service can benefit the area. It was really great to see everyone enjoying themselves, with painting and art activities, games, music, socialising and good homemade food! It was touching to hear everyone ask if they could come again soon and with more big events to follow, it would be lovely to see some more new faces!"

The next Big Day at the cafe is planned for February 2nd 2011, 10am-2pm at the Furnival.

"It's the time of year for planting seeds" so come along to our February arts and social event to enjoy a fun-filled day. Everyone is welcome and free to help out. We hope to put some simple finger food together as part of the day, where people can contribute and help clear up at the end. The important thing is to bring people together to enjoy the activities in a friendly atmosphere. We hope to see you there!

To get a taste for what the Dementia? Welcome! Cafe is about, come along to any of our weekly meetings, every Wednesday 11am-1pm, The Furnival, Verdon Street. Contact Nick Edmondson: 07725 569 380. Everyone is welcome!