At Pilgrims’ Friend Society, we combine best practice in the field of dementia care with the spiritual understanding that those living with dementia can enjoy a happy and fulfilled life. All our homes are registered with the Care Quality Commission for the provision of dementia care.
Our approach to dementia care is founded on academic work begun by Professor Tom Kitwood which emphasises the importance of the emotional intelligence and connection of those doing the caring. This was developed by Dr David Sheard into the “Feelings Matter Most” framework. In caring for those with dementia, we use the GEMS model developed by Teepa Snow.
Our approach looks past a person’s immediate physical needs to their essence and spirit, and we seek to form connections with them. We believe that a person living with dementia can continue to have a living relationship with God and support them in this spiritual journey.
Our Hummingbirds
Hummingbirds are members of staff specifically employed by the homes to spend time and connect with those living with dementia.
The name Hummingbird is inspired by how a hummingbird flits from flower to flower. Our Hummingbirds move from person to person, providing short, meaningful connections. They are trained to recognise the various stages of dementia, understanding the best ways to approach individuals, respecting their current reality and connecting with them accordingly. The dedicated approach means that no one goes long without an interaction, with Hummingbirds employed for six hours a day, seven days a week.
“There’s a saying: people won’t always remember what you say, but they will remember how you made them feel. I think that’s all the more true for those living with dementia."
Sonia, Hummingbird
The kinds of interactions a Hummingbird might provide include:
general conversation, promoting a warm, cheerful atmosphere
soothing and distracting those who are anxious
using memory prompts, such as a dementia tactile rug, to help those dementia connect with their past
praying and reading the Bible
small acts of kindness, like brushing hair
The Way We Care
Our bespoke approach to caring for those who live with us puts the whole person at the heart of all we do.
