Who We Are

We’re creating a community for those with dementia, centred around compassionate care for people with dementia and their families.

Why us?

We’re passionate about helping people with dementia, as we have experienced caring for those with the condition, and seen first hand how it affects those diagnosed with the condition. Unfortunately, we’re also aware of how little support there is available especially for those with mild to moderate dementia, and we want to make a difference in any way we can – whether that’s to those with the condition, or providing respite for their carers.

Meet the team

Lesley - Founder

Hi, I’m Lesley, and I am the founder of Recapture Life CIC! I started Recapture Life after witnessing first-hand the effects of dementia on those diagnosed with the condition – my own mum was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2011. When my mum was diagnosed, she lived in Kent - a 240 mile round trip from where I was located. Initially, she seemed to manage fine by herself, but by 2015 it was becoming apparent that she was struggling, so I brought her to Hampshire to live with me and we had a fantastic time.

However, it wasn’t without its struggles, worries, and frustrations. Caring for someone 24/7 is extremely hard, but I was fortunate enough to have an amazing Dementia Advisor, who helped and supported me! It was that very advisor that inspired me to become a Dementia Advisor, which I love. I recognised that there is a huge gap in the support and social opportunities for those with dementia, and very little to no respite for carers and loved ones – so I decided to set up Recapture Life!

Recapture Life provides a fun 3 hour weekly group for people with mild to moderate dementia, providing carers with a much needed break, with providing those with dementia social opportunities. I am a trained Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) facilitator, a non-pharmacological intervention for people with dementia recommended by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE).

Katie

Hi, I’m Katie, and I am the non-executive Director of Recapture Life! I have lots of experience running groups, although in the past this was focused on children. I have learnt a lot about dementia, much of which has been from Lesley, since a much loved family member was diagnosed with the condition.

Much of my experience has been in customer facing roles, and I understand that each individual is unique, none more so than people with a dementia diagnosis. I enjoy listening to people, and getting to know them – especially those that attend our groups! I love being creative, and bringing this to the group, getting our group members to engage with crafts, art, and more.

I am a trained Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) Facilitator, and I am currently studying for the Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Dementia Care to broaden my knowledge. I have completed ‘Emergency at Work’ First Aid training to comply with current guidelines and keep our group members safe in all eventualities.

Sharon

Hi, I'm Sharon. I am a volunteer for Recapture Life. I volunteer at the Cowplain session at the Borrow Centre. Most of my life I have worked for the NHS, firstly in the ambulance service and then working in various GP practises. I took early retirement but missed the interaction with people so when the opportunity arose to volunteer for Recapture Life I jumped at the chance.

Nicky

Hi, I'm Nicky. I am a volunteer for Recapture Life. I volunteer for the Fareham session at The Catisfield memorial hall. I have experience with Dementia as thats how I lost my Mum. I learnt so much throughout her journey that I wanted to use this to help others battling this terrible disease. It is a true highlight of week and its a priviledge to be able to help at Recapture Life.

Carol

Hi, I'm Carol, I am a volunteer for Recapture Life. I volunteer for the Fareham session at The Catisfield memorial hall. I was looking to volunteer with a Dementia group because i looked after my Dad for many years who had Alzheimers, then i left my job to look after him full time. I just wanted to use what i learnt to help others so when the opportunity came up it was the perfect fit, and to use his favourite saying with whatever is going on to " Just Keep Smiling ".

Would you like to be a Volunteer?

As we are expanding we are looking for Volunteers to help with our groups. Do you think you could be the right person

to help? If you are interested please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.

Ready to Recapture Life?

If you or someone you care for would like to join our club, please fill out our referral form and contact form and we will get back to you.

Start your referral