As a dedicated voluntary group, its mission is to provide support, advice, and guidance to individuals living with dementia, their families, and carers, ensuring that no one faces the challenges of dementia alone.
At the core of their work is Daisy’s Café, a monthly gathering designed to offer a friendly, supportive environment for those affected by dementia.
Held on the first Saturday of every month (11 am–1 pm) at Todmorden Health Centre, the café is a one-stop support hub where people can access information, share experiences, and enjoy social activities in a safe and welcoming setting.
Visitors to Daisy’s Café can take part in a variety of activities aimed at stimulating memory recall, improving well-being, and providing respite for carers. These include:
- Music and entertainment – Live performances from talented singers and musicians, that bring back cherished memories and create a joyful atmosphere.
- Memory recall exercises – Engaging activities designed to spark conversation and reminiscence.
- Games and social interaction – Encouraging laughter, participation, and connection within a supportive group.
- Guest speakers and advice sessions – Expert insights on dementia-related topics, helping families and carers access the best support available.
- A warm meal and refreshments – Lunch and drinks are provided, with all donations going directly back into funding the service.
Originally launched in 2015 at Todmorden Town Hall, Daisy’s Café moved to its current location in 2017, offering a more accessible space for its growing community. The café has since become a cherished local fixture, providing vital companionship and support to those affected by dementia.
With thanks to fundraising efforts, donations, and successful grant applications, the group can provide dementia-friendly equipment to those in need.
Items such as specialist dementia clocks, video phones, stay-warm plates, bowls, and night lights are given to members of the community, free of charge, to help them maintain their independence at home.
In addition to direct support, Dementia Friendly Todmorden is also committed to increasing dementia awareness throughout the wider community.
Their trained volunteers, accredited by the Alzheimer’s Society, deliver Dementia Friends Awareness Sessions. These interactive, 45-minute presentations are designed to educate groups on the realities of dementia, debunk common myths, and encourage understanding.
Participants who complete the session receive an official Dementia Friends badge to demonstrate their commitment to a more dementia-friendly community.
These sessions have been particularly beneficial for schools, businesses, and community groups looking to ensure their spaces are inclusive and supportive of those living with dementia.
Additionally, Dementia Friendly Todmorden also offers a virtual dementia experience, an immersive 10-minute sensory deprivation exercise designed to give carers, family members, and professionals a first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with dementia.
This powerful experience helps many develop greater empathy and insight into the daily struggles faced by those with the condition.
Whether you are living with dementia, caring for a loved one, or simply want to learn more, Dementia Friendly Todmorden is here for you.
For more information, please visit their website or get in touch:
