Support for families

At CrossReach we know dementia doesn’t affect individuals. It affects whole families.

After a dementia diagnosis many families find themselves with far more questions than answers. At CrossReach we have experienced specialist dementia advisors who can offer practical support, information and ideas. If you need a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on, we have plenty of those too.

Dementia Ambassadors
We have Dementia Ambassadors in all our dementia care homes and services. They have enhanced skills and knowledge in dementia care, and provide a point of contact for families and carers.

Dementia clinics
Our specialist dementia teams host regular dementia clinics in all our dementia care homes and services. They can answer questions and provide training for families on caring for a loved one with dementia.

Heart for Art Creative Arts Groups
Creativity is hugely beneficial to people with dementia, but it’s also important for their families. It’s an activity you can take part in together, stimulating conversation and jogging memories. But it also gives you a chance to take a break, speak to others in a similar situation or get advice from a CrossReach Dementia Ambassador – there’s one on hand at every Heart for Art session.

Find out more about Heart for Art

Respite care
If you care for someone with dementia, you may be facing big decisions about when they move into a specialist care home. We know this isn’t an easy step, but respite care can help to make the transition easier. By staying with us for one or two nights at a time, the person with dementia can get a feel for life in a care home, while you all get to know the staff and other residents.

Family involvement
When your loved one moves into a care home, you don’t have to lose contact with them. In fact, we want families to be closely involved in creating a care plan, choosing activities and contributing to life in the house. All our care homes operate an open visiting policy so you can come and go as you please. Many have a guest room available free of charge if you have to travel far to visit.