Hawkhurst Community Hospital League of Friends
The Monday Gang
Monday Gang – For Early Stage Dementia
A vibrant & easy-going group for people in the Early stages of Dementia in the gorgeous walled garden of Hands of Hope, Hawkhurst.
What do we actually get up to?
We are very much a social group with our aim of stimulating the mind, getting together with like minded people and having a good laugh.
Each week is tailored to what our members want to do and find interesting.
A diagnosis of dementia can be a scary moment, but we hope to provide a friendly, safe environment where everyone can support each other.
Things we have done and will be doing include :-
- Talks from local speakers like Ed Adams ‘Pluckley ghosts’
- Themed mornings like Burns night, St Patricks day…….
- Guided relaxation
- Gardening or Games day
- Music appreciation including classical to 1950’s – 1970’s
- Travel inspired day
- Art sessions
We go where it takes us!
We all enjoyed the covered patio in the walled garden this Summer and Autumn. We have been able to take advantage of The Cafe Mount, next door. They freshly cook gorgeous lunches of panini’s, soup, quiche and more.
Cafe Mount is also open to the public, Mondays, 10.30am – 3pm.
Where, when, how much?
- Hands of Hope, Moor Hill, Hawkhurst, Kent. TN18 4QB
- Every Monday in term time.
- 10.30am – 1pm: The Monday Gang
- Bring a sandwich or order lunch from Cafe Mount. Lots of tea/coffee biscuits/cake always provided.
- There is a charge of £25 per session to cover our overheads.
- 1-2pm – FREE Dementia choir if you fancy it, run by the wonderful Carla from The Rhythm of Life, an uplifting time, no singing talent needed!
We run in conjunction with The Dementia Experience, run by Clara Hebblethwaite.
They are a wonderful team, dedicated to delivering joyful events that generate connection for those who have family members living with dementia.
The Dementia Experience organise regular, free, clubs & events to support people with a family member experiencing dementia.
- Free ‘Hug in a Mug’ coffee morning
- ‘Joy in Motion’ sessions
- Tea Club
- Phoenix Dementia Choir
- Monday Gang
- ‘One-off Wonders’- such as uplifting classical concerts in care homes
We also run Information Sharing Sessions for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of dementia.
Please see their website for more information www.dementia-experience.com
Meet the team at The Monday Gang
Sarah Caller, Leader.
By profession I am an Occupational Therapist (OT) and I have worked with people with dementia throughout my career both as an OT and running WRAP Dementia Day Services.
I am passionate that life does not have to stop when you get that diagnosis of dementia. Everyone has their own thoughts and life experiences. I want to bring a bit of joy, laughter and understanding to everyone.
Anne Burdon, support worker.
Anne has a warm, level-headed, and empathetic approach and she is committed to making a positive impact.
Anne also offers much-needed support and guidance to all at Hug in a Mug, Carers group Dementia Coffee Mornings | Woodchurch & Benenden
Ali Acland, volunteer.
As with most of our volunteers, Ali has had personal experience of dementia so understands the challenges it poses. She brings a fun, kind-hearted personality and bakes a wonderful lemon drizzle.
What members and family say
We can’t speak highly enough of The Monday Gang. My mum attends every week, and although she’s not usually someone who enjoys being part of a group, she genuinely looks forward to going and thoroughly enjoys it.
Everyone is incredibly kind, patient, and supportive, and the atmosphere is always warm and welcoming. It’s been wonderful to see how comfortable and happy she feels there.
Just as importantly, it also gives my dad some much-needed respite while she’s at the group, which has made a real difference for us as a family. We’re absolutely delighted to have found The Monday Gang and are very grateful for everything they do.”
‘Dad always says what a what a friendly group it is and how much he enjoys the activities, and I always notice how happy and relaxed he is when I come to pick him up. We both really appreciate the thought and care that you all put in to the group every week.’
How to find out more?
Email or call Sarah Caller
wrapdds@gmail.com / 07471 240269
Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm.