The dementia-friendly church service provided a welcoming and familiar environment for our residents, with plenty of opportunities to join in with the celebrations. The Harvest Festival was a chance to reflect on the changing season and give thanks for the food, nature and community around us.

Our residents enjoyed being part of the service and soaking up the warm atmosphere, with familiar hymns and seasonal themes helping to make the occasion particularly meaningful.

Dementia-friendly church services are important because they help people living with dementia remain connected to their faith, traditions and local community. They provide an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can participate at their own pace, whether through singing familiar hymns, listening to readings, sharing memories or simply enjoying the atmosphere. These services can also provide valuable opportunities for social connection, helping residents feel welcomed, valued and included within their wider community.

For people living with dementia, outings such as these can offer valuable opportunities to remain connected with the wider community, revisit familiar traditions and enjoy shared experiences with others.

Goodson Lodge Home Manager, Rebecca Pike, said: 

It was wonderful to see our residents enjoying the Harvest Festival service and being part of the local community. Moments like these are so important, giving our residents the opportunity to enjoy familiar traditions, spend time together and create meaningful memories. We are very grateful to everyone at Wesley Road United Church for making us feel so welcome.

The visit was also a lovely chance for residents and staff to spend time together outside Goodson Lodge, making memories and enjoying a change of scenery.

A big thank you to everyone at Wesley Road United Church for making us feel so welcome and helping to create such a special Harvest Festival celebration.

We look forward to returning for more community events and services in the future!