Bringing Friendship and Fun: Award-Winning Dementia Care Expands in Cornwall

An award-winning dementia care service is expanding its reach in Cornwall, thanks to funding from NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board.

The Filo Project, a not-for-profit day care service, offers a unique alternative to traditional dementia day centres by providing small group care in the homes of local hosts.

A Home Away from Home

The Filo Project’s innovative model involves carefully selected hosts opening their homes to small groups of socially isolated older people with early to moderate dementia. Janet Lyth, a host in Gunnislake, welcomes her group twice a week for activities like cooking, arts and crafts, jigsaws, and games.

“It’s a win-win situation. I feel I’m helping people,” says Janet. “The clients have a nice day out, lunch, and interact with others. Carers at home also get a break. You’ve got to be fairly easy going and caring, but you don’t need to worry too much about planning as the group feed into what they would like to do.”

Photo: Libby Price Co-founder and Director The Filo Project

Making a Difference

Naval veteran Wendy and former darts champion Pam, who attend Janet’s group, appreciate the welcoming environment. Wendy says, “I don’t worry about making a mistake, I just relax here and laugh.” Pam adds, “We’re just happy being here. Janet is a lovely woman, she makes you feel welcome.”

The Filo Project, a Community Interest Company, draws on the extensive experience and research of its Co-Directors in dementia care. Liz Dennis, Co-Director of The Filo Project, explains their mission and expansion plans in Cornwall.

“Dementia and memory loss can be a very isolating, worrying time for families. But The Filo Project shows that with good quality care and support, people can still live well with dementia,” says Liz. “The more intimate, homely setting allows people to grow in confidence, make friends and reduce their risk of isolation. Their families benefit too, as carers get regular, extended breaks from the challenges of looking after a loved one with dementia.”

Growing Demand

To meet increasing demand, The Filo Project is seeking more hosts in Cornwall. Currently, groups are up and running in Liskeard, Bude, Callington, Launceston, Looe, Wadebridge, Saltash, Torpoint, and Truro. Liz Dennis notes that the organisation plans to expand further in the next two years.

Kate Shields, Chief Executive of NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board, emphasises the importance of this service: “Supporting people with dementia is a priority for us in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. Isolation can worsen the symptoms of dementia, but meeting people and taking part in activities can help reduce them. By working with The Filo Project, we can ensure that those people are able to spend two days a week in a warm and friendly place where they can be themselves.”

Becoming a Host

Hosts do not need previous care experience. The Filo Project provides full training, focusing on the importance of being friendly, creative, and enjoying time with older people. Hosting can be physically and emotionally challenging but also incredibly rewarding.

Hosts are required to work 9-5 on hosting days, provide a home-cooked hot lunch, have a full driving licence, use of a five-door car, a downstairs toilet, and a home with ground floor access and minimal steps. They receive a regular, above-market wage and travel costs. Unlike other care providers, hosts are paid per day, not per client, ensuring income stability even if clients cannot attend a session.

For more information on The Filo Project hosting and day care service, visit www.thefiloproject.co.uk or call 0333 939 8225.

Photo: Janet Lyth, The Filo Project Host