"My mum has been in a care home for about two years now after a bad fall at home. Physically she fully recovered very quickly and is still completely mobile but mentally she declined a lot after this.

Your events helped so much not just for my mum but for me and my brother as we both had young families at the time and could not always be there at the weekend so to know mum had somewhere to go took away a lot of guilt. Mum loved your events as she was picked up from home and then enjoyed the event so much. It gave her a chance to socialise, meet new people and be accepted as the way she was.

Dementia is such a horrible disease and people like you give some light in the darkness of it all. Thank you"

A H Bushey

"I was so grateful to the Saturday dementia club for the way they looked after my husband. He loved going to the club, especially when they had dancing which he enjoyed so much. The carers were so kind to him and I felt happy that they were looking after him.

It was such a relief for me to have a few hours to do what I wanted, either just relaxing or popping out to see friends, not having to worry about him. Sadly, he passed away recently, changing my life completely. I will always be so grateful to the Friends."

A H Northwood

"So pleased I found out about Friends of Care Homes. What a fabulous group of volunteers! They made us welcome from the word go! My lady I volunteer to care for absolutely loves going and looks so forward to seeing everyone! She can’t wait for Saturdays!

Very reasonably priced and worth every penny! She sings along with the music, wins on the free bingo almost every week! And gets quite excited when the snacks come around! She has difficulty making cups of tea now so it’s all a real treat being waited on!

And me as a carer! Well some weeks I join in ( I love it too) and others I take the opportunity for some me or family time! It’s difficult to shop as the lady in question can’t cope with crowded shops and wants to leave 30 seconds after entering! Crowded places mean anywhere a few people are rushing around to do their weekly shop! I can’t leave her alone or she wanders off, totally unaware of her surroundings! It’s great knowing she is in safe hands! I really don’t think I can continue if this facility should close!

I would like to say to this wonderful group of volunteers! Thank you so much I really don’t think myself and my lady would be able to cope without you. Thank you thank you thank you. X"

C J South Oxhey

"I cannot speak highly enough of this wonderful Saturday club. From the moment my husband, who has advanced dementia and is unable to do anything for himself, is collected, the care and thoughtfulness shown to him is evident. The transport and the volunteers accompanying it are consistently reliable, which provides great reassurance from the outset.

The club is run by dedicated volunteers who treat every attendee with genuine warmth, dignity, and respect. It is clear that they are deeply committed to the wellbeing of those they support, and this is reflected in every aspect of the service.

Each week offers a variety of engaging activities, including visiting performers who bring music, enjoyment, and stimulation to the group. My husband clearly benefits greatly from these sessions—he returns home happy, animated, and pleasantly tired, which speaks volumes about the positive experience he has had.

For me, as his wife and sole carer, the club provides invaluable time to myself while giving me complete confidence that my husband is not only safe, but meaningfully engaged and treated with the utmost kindness and respect. This peace of mind is truly invaluable, and I am extremely grateful for the dedication and compassion shown by all involved."

D L Pinner