10th December 2025
The Southern Health and Social Care Trust is taking steps to improve care for people living with dementia, with staff recently taking part in the first World Café learning session as part of the Enhancing Dementia Care Across the Trust (EDCAT) programme.
With the Trust area expected to have the highest number of people living with dementia by 2032, they are focusing on practical ways to build staff confidence, skills and understanding. The World Café brought together colleagues from mental health, disability, adult community and acute services, including nurses, social workers, healthcare assistants and support workers, to share experiences and explore new approaches to care.
A key part of the session involved hearing from service user Peter Alexander, who is living with dementia. Staff said that listening to his story gave them a deeper understanding of what the condition can feel like day to day, and how small changes in communication, empathy and patience can make a meaningful difference to someone’s experience.
A live before-and-after survey showed a clear increase in staff confidence, particularly in recognising different presentations of dementia and thinking through the possible reasons behind them. Many also said they appreciated the chance to step back, reflect, and learn from one another in a relaxed, open environment.
Dr Jackie Casey, Head of Research and Development for Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals, which funded the session, said:
“This is exactly what our Research and Development funding is for, helping staff learn in practical, meaningful ways. The World Café brings research, real experience and everyday practice together. When staff walk away feeling more confident in how they support someone with dementia, that’s a win for everyone.”
“The World Café approach is designed to blend theory with lived experience, giving staff simple tools and ideas they can use immediately,” said Jackie.
Trudy Reid, Director of Medicine and Unscheduled Care added:
“Strengthening dementia care is a core part of our Vision and Strategy 2030. As our population changes, we must ensure our staff have the confidence, skills and understanding to provide compassionate, person-centred support. Initiatives like the World Café show how learning together helps us deliver safer, more responsive care for people living with dementia and their families.”