Littlehampton tea party raises money for Dementia UK

Norden House held a community tea party and raised more than £350 for Dementia UK, which provides Admiral Nurses for families affected by dementia. More than 40 people attended the event and enjoyed live music, a tombola, stalls and a raffle.

Norden House opened in February and provides residential care, nursing and specialist support for people with dementia. It has been specifically designed to empower residents to continue living full and satisfying lives.

Marie Forrester, Deputy Manager of Norden House, said: “We were delighted to welcome our local neighbours and lots of friends and family to our tea party, to raise money for such a worthy cause. Dementia is a confusing and debilitating condition, and the work of Dementia UK is vital in providing support to people with the condition and their families.”

The tea party was the latest in a series of community events at the facility, to welcome members of the public to the home and promote a sense of independence for residents.

A Companionship Café has been set up at Norden House’s Honey Bee Tea Room, where anyone from the local community can come and enjoy complimentary refreshments, tasty treats and entertainment.

The next Café will take place on July 9, between 1pm and 3pm and then again on July 23, and August 6 and 20.

Open days have been organised for July 4, August 1 and September 5 between 10.30am and 4pm. These will include a tour of the facility, opportunities to speak to staff and more information on the patient-led care.

Norden House’s design and services have been inspired by research into what people with dementia want from the built care environment and the Hogeweyk in dementia village in Holland.

Residents live with up to seven other people in a household, who have similar care needs or are at a similar stage of dementia, important for reducing stress and encouraging socialisation. Each household has its own kitchen, open plan lounge dining room, day lounge spaces and ensuite bedrooms many of which have their own patio.

Running through the centre of the community is a ‘high street’ with the Honey Bee café and hair salon. There are also gardens and a holistic therapy room. Residents are encouraged to go about ‘daily routines’ and contribute to the running of village life.