We’ve just opened the doors to our brand new Memory Café in Leamington Spa and Kenilworth, and we couldn’t be more pleased with how it’s begun.
Based at Cubbington Village Hall, the café will run every Tuesday from 10am to 12pm. It’s designed to be a friendly, welcoming space for people living with memory loss or dementia – as well as those who care for them – to come together for a cuppa, some gentle activities, and a chance to connect with others who understand.
We know how important it is to have places where people can feel comfortable, supported and included – and that’s exactly what we hope this café will offer.
Before the café officially launched, we held an Open Day on Monday 25 March – and the response from the local community has been truly heartening.
A lovely start to something special
The Open Day was a chance to give people a feel for the café, and we were so pleased to welcome lots of individuals and families from the local area.
It was a relaxed morning with a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. There were tables set up with classic games like dominoes and Connect 4, as well as colouring for those who fancied something a little quieter. We saw people chatting and laughing together, and plenty of time was spent simply enjoying a hot drink and a biscuit in good company.
A real highlight of the morning was a talk from Claire Wilson at the Alzheimer’s Society, who gave a thoughtful and accessible overview of dementia – including the different types, early signs to look out for, and where to go for help and support.
We finished with a relaxed sing-along, where plenty of familiar tunes sparked smiles and some gentle toe-tapping. It was the kind of moment that really sums up what the café is about: connection, comfort, and community.
We had some lovely conversations with people who told us they’d been looking for something like this – somewhere to go where they and their loved one could feel at ease, meet others, and just enjoy a morning out together.
And of course, none of it would have happened without the work of Pippa Chapman, our Community Liaison, who brought the whole event together and helped make everyone feel at ease.
Why Memory Cafés are so important
Living with memory loss or dementia can feel incredibly isolating – not just for the person experiencing it, but for their loved ones too. Everyday life can start to feel more difficult, and many people find that social opportunities become fewer and far between.
A Memory Café is designed to gently fill that gap. It’s not a clinic or a formal support group. There’s no referral, no agenda, and no pressure to talk. It’s simply a warm, friendly place to drop in, meet others who understand, and spend a couple of hours in the company of people who know what it’s like.
It’s as much about reducing loneliness and helping people stay connected to their community as it is about offering guidance or signposting to services. Over time, regular attendance can help people build confidence, find new friendships, and feel more supported in daily life.
Whether you join in with every activity or prefer to take things at your own pace, you’ll always be met with kindness, patience and respect.
What to expect each week
The Leamington Spa and Kenilworth Memory Café takes place every Tuesday morning from 10am to 12pm at Cubbington Village Hall.
Each session is designed to be gentle, inclusive and relaxed. There’s no fixed structure or expectation – just a mix of activities to dip in and out of, time to chat, and space to enjoy being around others who understand.
You can expect:
- Gentle activities like painting, colouring, or puzzles – things that encourage creativity, conversation, or just a peaceful moment of focus
- Music and movement, including sing-alongs and Love to Move sessions – seated, dementia-friendly exercises to support coordination, memory, and wellbeing
- Games, such as dominoes or Connect 4 – familiar, simple and fun ways to connect with others
- Refreshments – always a cup of tea or coffee, something sweet, and a warm welcome
- A friendly face at every table – our team and volunteers are there to help everyone feel at ease
Some people join in with everything, while others prefer to take their time. However you choose to spend the session, we’ll support you to do it in a way that feels right for you.
Sessions cost £3 per person, which includes all activities and refreshments. There’s no need to book – just turn up when it suits you.
Support and partnerships
We’re proud to be working with a range of brilliant organisations who offer advice, information and support throughout the year. These include:
- Alzheimer’s Society: offering talks and resources around understanding dementia
- Dementia UK: whose Admiral Nurses provide specialist support to families
- Carers Trust: helping those in caring roles to get the help they need
- Age UK: offering practical advice for older adults on wellbeing and independence
- Local social prescribers and healthcare professionals: who can link people with wider community support
We’ll share in advance when these visitors will be joining us, and they’ll always be happy to chat, listen, and answer questions informally.
Who is the café for?
The Memory Café is open to anyone living with memory loss or dementia, along with family members, friends or carers who support them.
You don’t need a diagnosis, a referral, or to be receiving care from Unique Senior Care to attend. There’s no waiting list, sign-up, or commitment – just come along when it suits you.
Whether you’re just starting out or have been navigating memory loss for a while, you’ll be welcomed with kindness and understanding. Some people like to get involved in everything, others prefer to sit quietly – both are absolutely fine.
If you’re unsure whether the café is right for you or a loved one, we’d encourage you to come and give it a try. Even just popping in for a quick cuppa can be a good first step.
Could you help make our Memory Café even more special?
We’re always looking for people to get involved with the Memory Café. Whether you enjoy singing, playing music, painting, or just hosting a game of cards, your time and talents could make a big difference.
Friendly, caring volunteers are key to helping the café run smoothly. From chatting with attendees and making tea, to helping with activities, our volunteers help create the warm, welcoming atmosphere the café is known for.
We’d also love to hear from local schools. Intergenerational activities – art, music, storytelling – offer real benefits for both younger and older people, helping to build connection and understanding.
Volunteering at the café isn’t just about giving your time – it’s also a chance to learn, grow, and be part of something that matters.
Where to find us
Leamington Spa and Kenilworth Memory Café
- Cubbington Village Hall, Broadway, Leamington Spa, CV32 7JR
- Every Tuesday, 10:00am – 12:00pm
- £3 per person (includes refreshments)
Live closer to Knowle or Dorridge?
If you’re based nearer to Knowle or Dorridge, we also run a Memory Café there with the same relaxed atmosphere, friendly faces, and weekly activities.
That café takes place every Tuesday from 10:30am to 12:30pm at Dorridge Methodist Church, and is open to anyone living with memory loss or dementia, along with their family or carers.
You’re very welcome to come along to whichever location suits you best.
No booking needed – just turn up. If you’d like more information, or if you work in the community and would like to refer someone or request leaflets, please contact Pippa Chapman at pippa.chapman@uniquecare.co.uk or 01926 257524.
Chloe joined us in early 2024 as our content manager. Having earned a first-class degree in digital marketing and spending more than six years in public relations, she’s well-placed to shape informative content and heartfelt stories that help inform our clients and connect them with the care they need.
Having worked across a multitude of different industries before care, Chloe’s passion lies in the meaningfulness of her work – from creating content that guides clients through their care journey to helping Caregivers find a rewarding new role.
At Unique, Chloe finds fulfilment in our supportive culture and the heart-warming stories from both clients and carers that highlight the impact of our services.
