Sutton Coldfield care home joins The Big Dementia Conversation

A care home in Sutton Coldfield is calling on local people to take part in a national conversation to learn more about dementia.

On Tuesday6^th February, from 2pm-4pm, Care UK’s Mercia Grange, on Lichfield Road, is inviting members of the community for its Friendship Café as part of The Big Dementia Conversation, a nationwide initiative designed to encourage people to talk about dementia, including some of the most difficult topics associated with the condition.

According to a recent survey, commissioned by Care UK, eight in ten adults believe dementia is still misunderstood, with 69 percent of the nation believing it’s a subject which is not talked about enough in society. Many people also admit finding the condition uncomfortable to discuss –something Care UK is hoping to change by launching The Big Dementia Conversation. 

In addition to offering a space for individuals caring for someone with dementia to meet others in the similar situations and form support networks, the team at Mercia Grange will also be hosting a Dementia Friends session at 2.30pm. Led by Alzheimer's Society Ambassador and Customer Relations Manager Rachel Mackay, the session will shine a light on dementia and help people understand what it might be like to live with the condition.

In addition to the event, the Sutton Coldfield community can also visit a newly launched online advice hub. The hub takes a closer look at some of the less-talked-about symptoms of dementia, with expert advice from Care UK’s dementia specialists, who have more than 40 years of experience providing care for people living with the condition. 

Michael McNelis, Home Manager at Mercia Grange, said: “Here at Mercia Grange, we strive to create a sense of belonging within the home and provide a positive impact on the local community by building support systems for our neighbours. 

“We’re thrilled to invite the local community to our dementia café sessions and join in The Big Dementia Conversation. We believe that no carer should feel that they are alone, so we’re looking forward to welcoming new and old faces for a chat over a cup of tea and slice of cake.”

Mercia Grange’s Friendship Café is open to all in the community, every first Tuesday of the month, from 2pm-4pm. 

To find out more about Care UK’s Big Dementia Conversation initiative, please visit: careuk.com/thebigdementiaconversation   

Mercia Grange is a state-of-the-art care home which provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia, and short-term respite care. The three-storey care home, which features 67 ensuite bedrooms, has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon and café.