Rotherham care home boss hails dementia lunches for creating 'little community of our own'
Kathy Markwick, who launched Friendship Lunches in South Yorkshire ten years ago, has also described the events as “hugely important”
A 'Music Makes Memories' dementia-friendly lunch has been praised by a care home boss for helping their residents continue to feel “a part of our close-knit community.”
The event, held at the Toby Carvery in Eastwood, was the latest organised by freelance community consultant Kathy Markwick, who launched Friendship Lunches in South Yorkshire a decade ago and in Rotherham five years ago with a festive-themed lunch at the Manor Barn in Kimberworth.
Kathy said: “The latest Friendship Lunch was another huge success with excellent service by the team at the Toby Carvery, a delicious two-course carvery and superb entertainment by performer Mark Marsden.
"It is really lovely to see many 'old' faces and new ones joining us, too.
“The events are dementia friendly and offer invaluable respite for many families and/or carers.
“We know that some of our guests who live with dementia may not remember the event afterwards but they undoubtedly enjoy the moment and that is hugely important for them, their families and for us as organisers.”
Chris Cousins, registered manager at Broom Lane Care Home, and volunteer Tracey Fowler, are regulars at the events.
Chris said: "At Broom Lane Care Home it is a priority that our residents have the opportunity to enjoy local events and be a part of our close-knit community.
“Our residents and families have absolutely loved every single one.
“They all enjoy the pub lunch, live entertainment and a natter.
“The Friendship Lunches have become a little community of their own and we will definitely continue to support them."
The date for the next Friendship Lunch at The Toby Carvery in Eastwood will be confirmed shortly.
The dates for the next events at The Storyteller in Parkgate are Thursday, November 5 with singer Oliver Harris and at The Sitwell on Monday, November 9 with entertainment from Alison Melling.
Tickets must be booked in advance via the venues.
For further information, please contact Kathy on 0772 9528844 or email [email protected].