A South West-based dementia care organisation is marking 12 years of supporting its community.
The Filo Project, a not-for-profit social enterprise operating across Somerset and the wider region, offers a unique model of dementia care through small day groups hosted in trained hosts’ homes for people with early to moderate dementia.
The service includes transport where possible, a home-cooked meal, and personalised activities in a relaxed, domestic setting, giving clients a sense of belonging while providing much-needed respite for family carers.
Carol Scott’s husband attends The Filo Project twice a week.
Ms Scott said: "Seven years from diagnosis, I am still astonished at the benefits brought by Filo.
"My husband looks forward to his sessions because he has a stimulating day, likes his hosts and has company which is not me.
"His short-term memory is worse than it was but he is still very sociable and the deterioration I had expected has not yet materialised."
The service also gives Ms Scott time to herself, knowing her husband is safe and content.
She said: "On two days a week my time is my own.
"I know my husband is safe, fed and in stimulating company and that he is reliably collected and returned home while I can pursue my own interests and responsibilities."
Founded in 2014 with just two groups in Devon, The Filo Project now runs nearly 100 groups across the South West.
Groups in Somerset include Wellington, Yeovil, Chiselborough, South Petherton, Somerton, Witham Friary, Wells, Combwich, and Banwell.
It has supported more than 5,000 people and now employs 90 staff.
Jo Milsom, a group host for the past four years, said: "I enjoy opening up my home and creating a safe, welcoming space where people feel comfortable, supported and listened to."
Libby Price, CEO and co-founder of The Filo Project, said: "Dementia takes so much from families and is incredibly challenging.
"But people can live a good life for longer if we treat them as the valued person they still are – that’s the whole ethos we’re built on."
The organisation is now planning to launch a peer support service to help families connect and share experiences, as well as exploring ways to better support people with dementia who live alone.
If you are interested in becoming a host, you can find out more by visiting The Filo Project's website or calling 0333 939 8225.
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