Dementia Support Services
A Calm, Meaningful Connection with Nature
Heeley City Farm’s Dementia Support services create a safe, welcoming environment for individuals living with dementia and their carers. Through animal-assisted activities, gentle sensory sessions, and opportunities for social interaction, we help spark memories, relieve stress, and foster a sense of comfort. Each experience is guided by caring staff who understand the importance of dignity, empathy, and personal choice.
In 2015 Heeley City Farm opened a dementia department run by Lee Pearse, with help from his brother Andrew, who cared for their mother, Valerie, for over 12 years. Valerie had a rare form of Dementia called Frontotemporal Dementia (formerly known as Pick's Disease). Today the Dementia Department host many events across the city of Sheffield.
Animal-Assisted Therapy
Interactions with friendly farm animals encourage relaxation, engagement, and moments of genuine connection. These sessions can help ease anxiety, lift spirits, and inspire positive memories.
Dementia-Friendly Farm Days
Small group visits to the farm are designed to be calm and accessible. Gentle activities—such as gardening, crafts, or simply sitting in the garden—provide sensory enrichment and a soothing atmosphere.
Sensory & Creative Activities
Arts, music, and nature-based projects help stimulate the senses and offer outlets for self-expression. These activities can reignite personal interests and bring simple joys to everyday life.
Farming Comes to You
For those who find it difficult to visit, we bring the farm experience directly to care settings. By introducing animals and nature-inspired activities, we create moments of joy, curiosity, and shared laughter in familiar surroundings.
FTD Carers Group
This supportive space is dedicated to carers of those with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). It’s a place to share stories, insights, and emotional support, building a community of understanding and encouragement.
Tranquil Spaces & Outdoor Settings
Quiet corners, garden areas, and well-being classrooms provide peaceful backdrops for reflection, comfort, and gentle exploration, ensuring everyone feels at ease.
More about the programme
The Yorkshire Post
Animals & Nature Help Dementia
Learn how initiatives like 'Farming Comes to You' from Heeley City Farm bring therapeutic benefits to dementia patients.
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A short film
The Power of community links
Heeley City Farm and South Yorkshire Police partner to run a Dementia Support Group. This video highlights our work and community links.
Sheffield Live!
First farming comes to you visits
Heeley City Farm teamed up with Springwater House, Hackenthorpe to bring residents an unusual afternoon’s experience. Azz Mohammed reports for Sheffield Live!
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“Everyone loved meeting the adorable animals and it brought so much joy and laughter to our home.”
Sheff Care home
Want to learn more about the programme?
For more details about our Dementia Support services—such as session availability, outreach options, and how we adapt activities to individual needs—please get in touch. Our team is here to listen, guide, and help you find the right support.
