More EFID conversations…

I’m just back from The EFID conference in Turin - a fantastic gathering of people from across Europe, sharing stories and experiences from their projects.  What a pleasure to gather again with friends from Hungary, France, Italy, Belgium, Germany and beyond… speaking about inclusion, learning and evaluation and most importantly, hearing the views and experiences of people living with dementia. 

Probably the highlight of the trip was a visit to the Rifugio Re Carlo Alberto, a care home which offers residential and day care services in the Val Pellice region, about an hour south of Turin. Molly and Marcello organised a fantastic afternoon and we were made welcome by everyone. We heard about the work that Rifugio has done to bring the local community into the home (for example, an outdoor film festival) and also the work that people who live there have done to raise awareness about dementia in the surrounding towns and villages.

Hilary, Helen and Agnes finished the conference with some honest conversation about the reality of involvement. Yes, they described the importance of including people in projects and processes but importantly, we heard about the impact it can have. The resulting fatigue and support required. The organisation needed at home to ensure that loved ones are cared for too. 

Thanks to EFID for continuing to nurture and support this brilliant network.