Care and Share, a welcoming space on a dementia journey

Background

A member of our Care and Share group who wishes to remain anonymous and who we will refer to as ‘R’ cares for his wife, who lives with dementia. He describes his caring role as supporting every part of her daily life. Their days follow a familiar routine, including getting up, washing, dressing, meals, toileting and helping her feel comfortable and settled.

Alongside the practical tasks, R spends a great deal of time trying to understand how his wife may be feeling or thinking, so he can provide the reassurance she needs. Like many carers, this emotional support is an important but demanding part of his role.

R does not usually consider himself someone who enjoys attending groups. However, after seeing an email about Care and Share, he decided to give it a try, feeling that his wife might benefit from being around other people and having more opportunities for social interaction.

The challenge

Following his wife’s diagnosis, R noticed that their world had gradually become smaller. Social opportunities reduced, and it became harder to find places where both he and his wife felt comfortable and understood.

R wanted to find a setting that felt safe and welcoming for his wife, where she could be herself without pressure, while also offering him reassurance and understanding as a carer.

The Care and Share approach

Care and Share groups offer a relaxed, supportive environment for family carers and people living with mild to moderate dementia. Sessions provide opportunities for social connection, gentle activities and shared experiences, supported by friendly staff and volunteers who understand the challenges families may be facing.

R began attending the sessions with his wife, taking part in activities and spending time with others who had similar experiences.

Impact

Since attending Care and Share, R has noticed a gentle but meaningful change in his wife. During the sessions, she appears calmer and more settled, and she takes part in the physical activities with interest. Recognising the people around her makes a clear difference, helping her feel more at ease.
For R, seeing his wife comfortable and relaxed has been deeply reassuring. He values the familiar faces, calm atmosphere and understanding approach of staff and volunteers.

The group has also had a positive impact on R himself. Attending gives him a break from his usual routine and the chance to meet others who understand the realities of caring. Being among people in similar situations has helped him feel less alone, and he has gained confidence through shared conversations.

R has also benefited from picking up helpful information during the sessions and being able to access advice and support that is useful for both him and his wife.

Ongoing benefits

Although R does not feel that his own stress levels have changed significantly, he says the sessions give him something positive to look forward to. Care and Share has become a source of reassurance and a welcome change of pace for them both.

R describes the group as friendly and welcoming, with many people facing similar challenges. He believes this sense of shared experience makes a real difference, particularly for carers who may feel unsure about attending a group for the first time.

Support that makes a difference

R’s experience highlights the importance of welcoming, trusted spaces for families affected by dementia. Through Care and Share, he and his wife have found reassurance, understanding and meaningful connection. The group offers practical support, shared experience and moments of calm that help families feel less alone and better supported on their dementia journey.

Find out more about Care and Share and our other social groups