Caring for Each Other Through Life’s Challenges
Babette began caring for her husband, William, after he underwent a heart valve replacement at the age of 46.
In the years since, the couple have supported one another through a number of health challenges. Both Babette and William later experienced transient ischemic attacks (TIAs or mini strokes), and now in their seventies, the pair continue to look after each other as they navigate the changes that come with ageing and illness.
Currently, Babette is supporting William as he experiences some memory decline. “I’ll remind him to put down in his diary his appointments,” she shared. “It’s reminding him of things and making sure his medication is all in blister packs, so we know that he’s taken the right tablets that day.”
A Warm Welcome at Minds Together Café
Recently, the couple began attending a dementia-friendly space called the Minds Together Café at Goodinge Community Centre. The café provides a welcoming space for people living with dementia, memory changes, or similar health experiences, as well as their carers.
For Babette and William, attending the café has brought a sense of reassurance and connection. “Sometimes you think that you’re the only ones that have these kinds of things,” she said. “It’s nice to speak to other people and get some more information about what can help us.”
Activities That Spark Memories
The café offers a variety of activities designed to encourage conversation, creativity and social connection. One activity the couple particularly enjoyed was Kick Off With a Verse, run by Park Theatre. During the session, participants listened to a poem and then shared the thoughts, memories or ideas it sparked.
“It was to get your mind thinking,” Babette said. “It did actually, because years ago, he used to be a DJ, so it brought back memories of music he used to play.”
Providing a Lifeline
Although Babette and William have only recently started attending the café, Babette already recognises how valuable spaces like ths can be for people in similar situations.
“They are really important for everyone,” she said. “We’re lucky, we’ve got each other and family and neighbours we can call on if we need them for anything, but if I was on my own, somewhere like this would be a total lifeline. Doris and her team are absolutely marvellous and they go out of their way to help.”
Creating a Safe Space in the Community
After nearly a year of planning by Goodinge Community Centre, Chair Doris Hester and Stacey Smith from the Community Partnerships Team at Islington Council, the project launched in January 2026. Open to residents experiencing dementia or memory loss and their carers, each session offers themed activities designed to support resident’s cognitive and emotional well-being.
“It’s a safe, welcoming space for people living with memory loss, including dementia or Alzheimer’s,” Stacey said. “More than anything, it’s about coming together – sharing something to eat, enjoying each other’s company and taking part in activities that engage the mind. The social side is also important. All of this can help people living with dementia hold on to their abilities for longer, and emotionally, it can provide a lift.”
Try Something New Every Month
Each monthly session includes a mixture of activities led by different organisations. Past events have included strength and balance exercises, poetry readings and tai chi sessions, while upcoming activities range from pet therapy to creative arts projects and outdoor visits.
“People have this idea of memory cafés, that people just sit there and just watch the telly,” Stacey said. “I don’t want that. I want them to have fun. I want them to feel that they still very much have something to give back to society, that they’re still a productive citizen, that they can still contribute.”
The café has already become a meaningful space for many people in the community. Across Islington, other dementia-friendly spaces and activities designed to support people living with memory changes and the people who care for them are available. These groups offer opportunities to meet others, share experiences, and take part in fun activities in a supportive environment.
To explore dementia-friendly activities in the borough, visit:
https://www.ageuk.org.uk/islington/activities-and-events/dementia-friendly-islington-activities/
Do any of these themes seem familiar to you?
If you are a carer for a member of your family, or partner, get in touch with Islington Carers Hub – 020 7281 3319, info@islingtoncarershub.org or add your details to the Contact Us form.
The Islington Carers Hub is a gateway to meeting a network of other Islington carers and local support to help you in your caring role.
