The Youghal Social Café is a once monthly social event for local people, carers and families living with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or other forms of Dementia. The Youghal Social Café was set up in May 2014 by a small working group consisting of public health nurses, community workers, the Cork Alzheimer’s Society and concerned family members. There is no day care centre in Youghal to offer respite and support to families coping with Dementia; it was clearly evident that the provision of a safe, fun and engaging opportunity for families living with a diagnosis of Dementia was needed to reduce social isolation in Youghal and in other areas of East Cork.

The Youghal Social Café enables families, carers and friends to come together once a month, access advice and support in a relaxed, fun and non-judgemental environment. With the help and dedication of local volunteers the Social Café is able to provide live music, free hand massage, homemade cakes and more importantly a chat and a smile for every person who walks through the doors of the Social Café.

Each month the Social Café hosts tailored activities and guest speakers; a Dementia advisor from the Cork Alzheimer’s Society is often on hand to speak with people about their diagnosis and answer any questions they may have. The overall atmosphere of the café is one of inclusion, reducing isolation and stigma and promoting socialisation in the presence of others who understand the experience of living with the disease.

“It gives the people that come a chance to meet, they wouldn’t generally see people, and it’s generally relaxed, it’s a good way to go and start the day. And also learn things from other people.

Anybody could come in and integrate with the other people, new person that we know is going, looks like it’s good for her. It has a good following, it’s something to look forward to. They have nice drinks and food available. It’s timed well, it’s when people can relax and get there without rushing”. Social Café member living with a diagnosis of Dementia.

“The social cafe is a lovely place with lovely people. There is always kind volunteers offering tea, cake, a kind word, support. My mother has been going regularly for a long time, she is used to going, people know her and she feels comfortable. I feel supported in my community in my caring journey through going to the Social Cafe, it provides us both with a break from the norm while being reassuringly familiar and welcoming”. Family Carer.

The Social Café is held the last Friday of every month from 11am-1pm at the Holy Family Hall, Magners Hill, Youghal. The service is available to anyone from East Cork and is free to attend.