Mill Street day Club - 'Inspirational' is not a word automatically associated with dementia day care, but carers and professionals alike have used it to describe the thoughtful, person-centred and uplifting world of the Mill Street Club.
The club follows our trademark formula of small group activities, a relaxed informal atmosphere and high staff ratios allowing everyone to follow their own preferences.
Members are joined at least twice a week by therapy whippets Higby and Dottie and by a rota of volunteer dogs on other days.
The spacious, purpose designed club is thoughtfully laid out with members' art on the walls, a snooker/table tennis table and an indoor garden area (complete with water feature) which provides a quiet space and allows members to experience more natural surroundings.
What to expect at Mill Street Club
No two days are the same at Mill Street. Everyone settles in at their own pace and we often start the day with toast and a group catch-up before small group activities chosen by members.
Recent activities have included art therapy, weaving, cookery, board games, reminiscence therapy including using the club's iPad, dance, poetry and prose and a wide range of visitors from the local community. The club uses its prime position to forge close links with the local community and has a well-established link with Holbrook Primary School.
Mill Street is open from 9.45am to 3.45pm from Tuesday to Friday each week, for up to ten members at time.
It is led by Manager Sharon Cooper and Head of Day Care Services, Grant Newton, who was shortlisted for Dementia Care Manager of the Year in the national Dementia Care Awards.
They are supported by highly experienced support workers and a committed team of trained volunteers.