Living with dementia, or caring for someone who is, can be a challenging and emotional journey.
Fortunately, in Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell, and Loughton, a wide range of dementia-friendly support services and groups are available to offer support, companionship, and meaningful activities for those affected by memory loss.
Whether you’re looking for a friendly face, professional guidance, or a relaxing cup of tea in good company, here’s how you can get involved locally.
Buckhurst Hill
Memory Cafe – Buckhurst Hill
A welcoming space to socialise and share experiences.
📍 Roding Valley Hall, Station Way, IG9 6LN
🕙 2nd Friday of each month, 10am–12pm
📞 07743 097973 | enquiries@buckhursthillresidents.co.uk
Singing for the Brain
Group singing to stimulate memories and connection.
📍 St John’s Church Hall, High Road
🕥 2nd, 4th & 5th Mondays, 10:30am–12pm
📞 0333 150 3456 | essexandhertsgroups@alzheimers.org.uk
Carer Support Group
Peer support and practical advice for carers.
📍 St James’ United Reformed Church, Palmerston Road
🕜 Last Thursday of the month, 1:30pm–3:30pm
📞 07955 266042 | Veronica.Sadowsky@AFFC.org.uk
Bedford House Community Courses
Free, friendly sessions focused on creativity and wellbeing.
📍 4 Westbury Road, IG9 5NW
- Gardening Club: 1st Thursday, 10am–12pm
- Crafting Club: Mondays, 10:30am–12:30pm
- Tai Chi: Mondays, 1pm–2:15pm (booking required)
bedfordhouse.org.uk/community-courses | 0208 504 6668
Woollard’s Kitchen
A social gathering for tea, chats, and community.
📍 The Woollard Centre, Loughton Way
🕝 Every Thursday, 1:30pm–3:30pm
📞 07960 603621 (Lorraine)
Chigwell
Lambwood Heights Memory Cafe
Open to all in the community for connection and support.
📍 Lambwood Heights Care Home, Chigwell
🕛 3rd Friday of each month, 12pm–4pm
📞 0203 973 5600 | clientrelations.lh@oaklandcare.com
The Sunshine Club – Lambwood Heights
Afternoon tea and engaging activities in a supportive environment.
🕑 2nd Wednesday of the month, 2pm–4pm
📞 0203 973 5600
Chigwell Parish Memory Cafe
Community-based gathering for those with memory challenges.
📍 Chigwell Parish Community Hub, Hainault Road, IG7 6QZ
🕚 4th Friday of the month, 11am–1pm
📞 07853 944829
3Social Memory Cafe – All Saints Church Hall
Friendly and informal get-together with refreshments.
📍 Romford Road, Chigwell Row
🕞 1st Monday of each month, 3:30pm–5:30pm
📞 01992 842642 | info.3food4u@gmail.com
Loughton
Alzheimer’s Society Drop-In
For information, support, and a listening ear.
📍 Loughton Library, Traps Hill, IG10 1HD
🕚 3rd Wednesday of the month, 11am–2pm
📞 0333 150 3456 | Essex@alzheimers.org.uk
Memory Café – The Loughton Club
Two regular sessions led by local groups.
📍 8 Station Road, IG10 4NX
- 1st Friday (Roding Rotary Club): 10am–12pm | 07903 274398 / 07510 297173
- 2nd Thursday (3Social & Warm Place4U): 2pm–4pm | 01992 842642
Silver Movers Exercise Class
Gentle movement for health and vitality.
📍 Woodland Grove, Rectory Lane
🕚 4th Saturday of the month, 11am–12pm
📞 0208 508 9220 | clientrelations.wg@oaklandcare.com
Social Activity Club – Voluntary Action Epping Forest (VAEF)
Friendly afternoon sessions with optional transport.
📍 St John the Baptist Church, Church Lane
🕐 Wednesdays, 1pm–3pm
💷 £5 (includes refreshments) or £10 with transport
📞 07708 171116
Loughton Voluntary Care – Methodist Church
Supporting older adults in IG10 with varied services and activities.
📍 260 High Road, IG10 1RB
- Keep Well Club: Wednesdays, 2pm–3:30pm
- Fish & Chip Lunch: Last Saturday monthly, 11:45am–2pm (£10 approx.)
- Befriending Services: Including shopping, walking, and garden help
IT Clinic:
Saturday mornings, 10am–11:30am (drop-in)
📞 07592 369198 | ✉ info@loughtonvoluntarycare.org.uk
You are not alone
Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking community, these local initiatives offer more than just practical help – they provide friendship, understanding, and a sense of belonging.
Please check with individual organisers to confirm session times and availability before attending and for more information about our specialist dementia care, contact the office today.
