Dementia friendly pub lunches launch

Sunrise of Bagshot is celebrating after supporting the launch of local dementia-friendly pub lunches.

Melanie Grigg, director of community relations at Sunrise of Bagshot, is the chairman of the Dementia Action Alliance in Bagshot, Windlesham and Lightwater, which have developed the new initiative. The alliance uses the Sunrise dining principles to offer a calm and welcoming environment to those living with memory loss and make menus clear and simple, with pictures if required.

The lunches are open to everyone from the local area and provide an ideal opportunity for families impacted by dementia to meet.

This month’s lunch was a Christmas special held at The Kings Arms in Bagshot, with guests tucking into festive treats whilst enjoying music and entertainment provided by local singer Jen Merchant. The afternoon proved to be a big success, with a discounted Christmas menu provided by the landlord Mark Gordon and chair of the Bagshot Business Association.

The Dementia Action Alliance is run by a committee made up of representatives across Sunrise of Bagshot, Home Instead Senior Care, Lakeview Care Home in Lightwater, Lightwater Business Association and Bagshot Business Association.

Melanie Grigg, director of community relations at Sunrise of Bagshot, says: “We are thrilled to have launched such a fantastic dementia-friendly initiative for the local area. Those living with dementia, as well as friends, family and neighbours across the local community are all welcome enjoy a positive and welcoming space, as well as delicious food of course!

“Our special Christmas lunch was also a great way to spread kindness and festive cheer this season. We look forward to continuing to build the success of our lunches in the new year.”