“The best thing about attending is quality time with my dad… knowing we always have this space every 2 weeks I can block out to truly spend time together is great.”- Jamie
Time for Tea is our cookery group for people living with dementia and their carers, friends & family members. The group aims to provide an increased sense of purpose, happiness, independence, and a place to make new friends and learn new skills safely. Jamie attends with his dad Alan and has found the group creates a “supportive, safe and happy atmosphere” providing the opportunity for him to “really embrace something new with his dad”.
Each session is tailored to the needs and interests of our participants. With our diverse range of recipes catering to all skill levels, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. Jamie told us how “The atmosphere that community chef Jethro & the volunteers provide, makes you feel so supported, safe and happy”. This support has encouraged his dad, who has never really cooked anything “beyond cheese on toast” before, to make a range of dishes from cakes to falafels to risotto.
“There’s something lovely about everyone preparing a meal together and sitting down and eating it. My dad has learnt many new skills. From someone who never cooked to planning a Valentine’s meal for my mum.”
There is a real sense of community amongst our regular attendees, with participants forming friendships and attending activities outside of the kitchen. The group also provides a space for people to spend quality time with their family members and friends. As Jamie explains “for me the best thing about attending is quality time with my dad. Sometimes it’s difficult with work and family commitments, but knowing we always have this space every two weeks I can block out to truly spend time together is great.”
Cooking, eating, and preparing meals as a group can help to evoke cherished memories and re-ignite culinary passions. At the cookery group, we embark on this journey together, creating light, delicious meals to be shared around our communal dining table. Whether it’s a classic favourite requested in previous weeks or an exciting dish from around the world, our participants leave each session feeling inspired and empowered to recreate these dishes in their own kitchens. Jamie explained how he and his dad have both tried new ingredients and dishes together around our communal dining table, leaving each session feeling renewed and with fresh culinary ideas.
Any anxiety I was feeling before attending, left as soon as we were welcomed in by the group and volunteers. I always come out of each session feeling better than when I went in.
It was fantastic to hear from Jamie that our space provides a welcoming and engaging environment for the seasoned chefs in the group but also for people whom cooking is something newer, like Alan. Our team love helping him to explore something new and hone his skills.
A huge thank you to Jamie for sharing their story.
Help us continue to provide community cookery activities – your donation can help ensure we reach more individuals in need.