The John Dalton Dementia Cafe is a friendly, welcoming place for people living with dementia and their carers.
It runs every Friday from 10 am to 12 pm at Linthorpe Community Centre. Some members of the group have lost their partners or loved ones but previously cared for them; some have family members or spouses with dementia who are now in care homes; and others come along with the person they’re caring for.
When I visited recently, volunteers were on hand to sit with people , giving carers a chance to enjoy a coffee and catch up with others all within the same safe, welcoming space.
The cafe was set up in memory of John Dalton, who sadly passed away in June. His wife, Pat Dalton, cared for him throughout his dementia journey. During that time, she met Joely Clark, who by chance helped look after John one day so Pat could spend some time with friends. Joely and John hit it off straight away and became really good friends, and Joely continued to support both him and Pat. After John passed away, Joely recognised the need for a place where people living with dementia and their carers could come together for support and companionship and that’s how the cafe began.
Pat Dalton told me:
"When you’re caring for someone, you end up doing things you never imagined you’d have to do. And some days you really do feel like you’re failing, but you’re not. You’re doing your very best. I used to look at a picture every day that said, ‘Just because you’re struggling does not mean you’re failing,’ and it reminded me to keep going. We all need strategies to help us cope as well as support.
“Some carers are looking after their partners and coping with a great deal every day. Many people living with dementia attend the day centre in North Ormesby, giving their carers much-needed respite. For those who attend the cafe together, having support from volunteers is especially important, as many partners need activities to keep them involved and occupied. The cafe offers carers a chance to relax and be themselves even when they come along with the person they care for. And it gives carers and former carers a place where they feel understood and supported."
From talking to people during my visit, it was clear that the cafe is more than just a peer support group, it’s a genuine friendship group.
The group is eager to welcome new visitors, whether you come alone or with the person you care for. They’re also looking for volunteers to help run the cafe and support those living with dementia during the sessions.
The John Dalton Dementia Cafe meets every Friday, 10:00 am – 12:00 pm at Linthorpe Community Centre.
To find out more email community@friendsoflinthorpe.org
