Nottingham-based dementia care home specialist, Church Farm Care, has opened its own shop at its Skylarks home in West Bridgford to encourage independence among residents. 

The shop, named Open All Hours, is run by staff and residents and offers a range of items, including clothing, jewellery, and knick knacks, which other residents can peruse and pretend to buy.

The shop encourages residents to keep active and helps to create a daily routine – known to be beneficial to those with dementia.

The shop is filled with donations from staff, family members, and the local community. 

The inspiration for the shop comes from the innovative Danish Dementia Village, known as The Hogeweyk, where residents are also encouraged to be independent by visiting the site’s own shops, salons, and clubs.

Church Farm Care has taken inspiration from its Dutch counterpart in the past through its creation of small household living units to create communities within its homes and its approach to building and interior design specifically supports those living with dementia. 

Lucy Atkinson, director at Church Farm Care, said: “Our staff at Skylarks had the lovely idea to open the shop and have made such a big effort to get it up and running.

“Whether our family members are manning the tills, or filling up their shopping baskets, they love to come and visit Open All Hours which is great to see. 

“Encouraging our family members to complete everyday activities, such as cleaning and preparing food for the kitchen, helps them to know that they have made a contribution and it reinforces the feeling of home and community.

“It can also bring forth past memories of trips with loved ones.

“On top of this, Open All Hours allows them to participate in shopping activities, which encourages independence and makes them feel valued.”