Hosting people with dementia 'incredibly rewarding'

Caroline Acreman (centre) hosts small groups at her home in South Petherton

A dementia day care service has said it needs more people to host small groups in their own homes.

The Filo Project, a not-for-profit organisation, works with hosts who welcome people with early to moderate dementia into their home to spend the day together.

There are about 25 hosts in Somerset but more are needed to meet growing demand, particularly in Bridgwater.

Caroline Acreman, a host from South Petherton, said: "Dementia can be a really isolating experience, so it's incredibly rewarding to see people grow in confidence and make friends within the group."

Ms Acreman added: "My group are renewing old hobbies and interests such as playing Rummikub, enjoying crafts and baking."

The Filo Project was set up in 2014 to offer people with dementia a day of activity, company and conversation within a small group that meets weekly.

It has supported more than 5,000 older people within their communities across England.

Hosts require a largely step-free home with a downstairs toilet and five-door car to transport clients. It is a paid role and training is provided.

The Filo Project said group days help people socialise and build confidence

Jude Pinder, the project's chief operating officer, said: "We don't necessarily need to have people to have previous experience as a carer.

"It's more important to us that people have got a caring nature, that they're able to weave the magic of making a group come together to have an exciting and fulfilling day.

"Clients come to the same host every week and it's that consistency that really helps people with dementia grow and flourish."