The McCarthy & Stone Foundation, an independent charity that provides grants to non-profit organisations improving the lives of people later in life, has awarded £7,500 in funding to a local Portsmouth community group. This donation will support those living with dementia and their carers, as well as enabling the group to continue its valuable work in the community.
Dementia Grant Programme
The funding has been distributed through the foundation’s annual Dementia Grant Programme, which provides grants to grassroots organisations delivering vital local dementia support services. This programme is specifically designed to strengthen community-based support and ensure smaller organisations can continue delivering essential services to those affected by dementia.
Community Kettle CIC
Community Kettle CIC provides an inclusive and accessible environment that supports older residents living with dementia to remain connected, confident and independent within their community. The hub offers adaptable, everyday activities that reduce isolation and promote dignity, while carers receive opportunities for peer support, informal respite and shared understanding.
New Memory Group
This donation will enable the service to establish a dedicated Memory Group, offering structured, low‑pressure sessions designed to support cognitive stimulation and emotional wellbeing. Activities will include reminiscence work, music and memory sessions, sensory crafts, life‑story prompts and calm social interaction, helping to maintain participants’ independence for longer.
Wider Community Impact
The funds will also have a wider community impact, enabling the group to support specialist volunteer training and work with local shops, cafés and services to help them understand how to support customers living with dementia through simple adjustments, awareness training and shared resources.
Quotes
Nicole Heard, director at Community Kettle CIC, commented: “We are thrilled to receive this funding from the McCarthy & Stone Foundation. This support will help us create new opportunities for people living with dementia to come together in a welcoming and understanding environment, where they can build friendships, stay engaged and take part in activities that support their wellbeing. The funding will also enable us to strengthen support for carers, while helping to raise awareness across the local community so that people affected by dementia feel more included, understood and supported in everyday life.”
Andrew Burrett, trustee at the McCarthy & Stone Foundation, added: “Small charities and community groups play an essential role in supporting people living with dementia and the families and carers around them. We know unrestricted funding is particularly valuable, as it enables them to respond flexibly to the needs of the people they support. Through our Dementia Grant Programme, we are proud to help these organisations continue providing compassionate, life-changing services within their local communities.”
