Music, Memories and Community: Our Dementia Café in Angmering Continues to Grow
What started as a welcoming monthly gathering has grown into a much-loved community resource, bringing people together through music, friendship and support. Now, thanks to its success, our Music & Memory Café in Angmering has expanded to twice a month!
At Home Instead Rustington & Arundel, we believe that nobody should have to navigate the challenges of dementia or memory loss alone. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to be part of the Arun Dementia Alliance, working in partnership with St Margaret’s Church in Angmering and Ayton House Care Home to provide a friendly, supportive space for local people and their families.
Since launching our Music & Memory Café in January 2026, we’ve been overwhelmed by the positive response from the community. With growing attendance, familiar faces returning each month and new friendships forming, it’s become clear just how valuable this resource is.
And we’re delighted to share that, as of October, we’ve successfully launched a second monthly session, giving even more people the opportunity to connect, socialise and access support.
Two Sessions, One Supportive Community
Our Music & Memory Café now takes place on the first and third Thursday of every month, from 10am to 12pm, at St Margaret’s Church Hall in Angmering.
While both sessions offer the same welcoming atmosphere, each has a slightly different focus.
First Thursday: Music, Memories and Togetherness
Our flagship Music & Memory Café is all about bringing people together through the joy of music.
With live musical performances, familiar songs and plenty of opportunities to sing along, these mornings are filled with smiles, laughter and connection.
Music can be an incredibly powerful way to connect with people living with dementia, often helping to spark memories, encourage interaction and bring a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Alongside the entertainment, we also welcome guest speakers who share useful information, advice and guidance on topics relevant to older people, dementia and those caring for loved ones.
Of course, there’s always time for a cup of tea, something tasty and a friendly chat!
Third Thursday: Supporting the Carers, Too
Following the success of our flagship café, we recognised an opportunity to offer something a little different.
Our newly introduced third Thursday session places a greater focus on supporting family carers, while ensuring their loved ones continue to enjoy a stimulating and sociable morning.
During these sessions, our wonderful volunteers spend more time engaging with those living with dementia through activities, games, music and one-to-one interaction, tailored to their interests and abilities.
Meanwhile, family carers have the opportunity to sit together, enjoy a cup of tea and connect with others who understand the challenges and emotions that can come with caring for someone they love.
For many carers, finding the time or opportunity to speak with others in a similar situation can be difficult. These sessions offer a chance to share experiences, exchange advice, build friendships and, importantly, feel less alone.
Our first additional session was a wonderful success, and we’re looking forward to seeing this supportive network continue to grow.
More Than Just a Café
While the music, activities and refreshments are always enjoyed, the real value of our Music & Memory Café goes far beyond a pleasant morning out.
For someone experiencing memory difficulties, opportunities to socialise and remain connected to their community can make a meaningful difference to their wellbeing.
For family carers, the journey can sometimes feel overwhelming. Understanding dementia, managing changing needs and knowing what support is available isn’t always straightforward.
That’s why we’ve worked hard to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable, included and supported.
Alongside our group activities, we also have a private space available for anyone who would like to speak confidentially with a professional about their concerns, ask questions or explore what support might be available.
Whether someone is looking for practical advice, reassurance, companionship or simply a reason to get out of the house and enjoy themselves, there’s a place for them here.
You don’t need a formal dementia diagnosis to attend. We warmly welcome anyone experiencing memory difficulties, those living with dementia, their families, friends and carers.
Working Together to Make a Difference
One of the most rewarding parts of this initiative has been seeing what can be achieved when local organisations come together with a shared purpose.
Through the Arun Dementia Alliance, Home Instead, Ayton House Care Home and St Margaret’s Church are combining their knowledge, experience and community connections to provide something that we believe is genuinely needed.
We’re also incredibly grateful to the volunteers, musicians, guest speakers and everyone who gives their time to make these sessions possible.
As the café has grown, it’s reinforced something we feel passionately about at Home Instead: Community connection is an essential part of helping older people live well.
Social isolation can affect anyone, but for people living with dementia and those caring for them, the risk of feeling disconnected can be particularly significant.
By creating opportunities for friendship, conversation, meaningful activities and access to advice, we hope to make a positive difference, one morning at a time.
Seeing the café grow from its first session to two regular monthly gatherings has been incredibly rewarding, and we’re excited to continue welcoming new faces.
Come Along – We'd Love to Welcome You!
Whether you’re living with dementia, have started noticing changes in your memory, care for a loved one or would simply benefit from some company and support, our Music & Memory Café is here for you.
When: First and third Thursday of every month
Time: 10am–12pm
Where: St Margaret’s Church Hall, Angmering
Cost: Completely FREE to attend!
You can book your place online using the links here – Book your space online!
Alternatively, you’re welcome to get in touch directly:
Joseph – Community Champion, St Margaret’s Church
Email: community@angmering.org.uk
Caroline Thomas – Ayton House Care Home
Telephone: 01903 254170
We would love to welcome you, whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been joining us since the beginning.
Because sometimes, a familiar song, a friendly face and a cup of tea can make all the difference.
