The event took place at their office in Bourne Valley Road, and was designed to give local families, carers, and community members practical tools to better understand and support people living with dementia.
The training was part of the team’s ongoing commitment to making Bournemouth and Poole more dementia-friendly. Delivered by experienced trainers, the session covered how dementia affects the brain, common signs and symptoms, and simple communication techniques that can make day-to-day life easier for those affected.
Over the past three years, the team have also worked closely with Bournemouth University on Project TOMATO, an initiative focused on supporting people living with dementia at home with eating and drinking. The project, which stands for nuTritiOn and deMentia AT hOme, brings together home care professionals, family carers, and people living with dementia to develop practical ways of promoting good nutrition and hydration. As part of this collaboration, the team distributed free A4 resource packs to all attendees, created as one of the project’s key outcomes..
They also highlighted the free courses available to anyone via the GoodOaks Academy, courses include an “Introduction to Dementia” and “Healthy eating in older people.” All designed to support family carers and members of the local community. The courses are completely free and they welcome anyone to enrol regardless of how much or little experience they have in care.
Attendees also learned about the small adjustments that can make a big difference, from creating supportive environments to recognising the emotional needs of someone living with dementia. The interactive format encouraged open discussion, giving people a chance to share personal experiences, ask questions, and build confidence in supporting loved ones.
Alongside the training, attendees were also able to take advantage of free health checks offered on the day. Using the branch’s new Blue Box service, participants could have their blood pressure, heart rate, and general wellbeing monitored in a quick and confidential check-up. These checks gave people the chance to better understand their own health and to discuss any concerns in a supportive environment.
Local families described the training as hugely valuable, with many leaving feeling more empowered to provide compassionate care. The event also highlighted how small changes across the community can help people with dementia feel more included and understood.
The team were proud to bring this initiative to the community and look forward to running more community events in the future. For more information on their visiting and live-in care services, contact us.