Our Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) programme is designed to help people with mild to moderate dementia to improve their memory and thinking skills and at the same time offer some support to their carers.

How can CST improve memory and thinking skills?

Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) is one of the most evidenced approaches in terms of clinical and cost-effectiveness. CST sessions are intended for people with mild to moderate dementia and are designed to be relaxed, fun and create opportunities for people to learn, express their views and work with others in a sociable setting(1).

Why is Westbank able to offer this programme?

Westbank has been working with Professor Aimee Spector(2) and received specialised training to a dedicated team of staff and volunteers to deliver CST.

What is the structure?

A group of 5 to 8 people held once a week on Mondays for 7 weeks.

Programme:

• 10.30am Refreshments and papers
• 11.30am CST session
• 12.45pm Optional three-course meal
• 2pm CST session
• 3pm Finish

Do you need to attend every group?

Yes. This is based on reported research, where attending 14 sessions, participants quality of life had improved.

Who can access the service?

Anyone with a diagnosis of mild to moderate dementia who live in EX6 or EX2 via self-referral or a referral by a health care practitioner or carer.

What support is available for carers?

Our carers group meet in our welcoming Seedlings Café on Monday mornings, 10.30am to 12.30pm. This enable carers to share experiences, gain support and relax with others. Carers can also enjoy a freshly prepared three-course meal with their cared for.

Cost of the programme?

• Living Well with Dementia Group (inc a three-course meal): £16 per week (7 weeks)
• Three-course lunch for carer: £5 

How to find us?

Westbank, Farm House Rise, Exminster, EX6 8AT. The centre is easily accessed by No 2 Stagecoach service from Exeter Bus Station to Reddaway Drive. It is a short drive from Exeter, surrounding villages and the M5.

Transport to Westbank? 

Participants will need to make their own travel arrangements to and from Westbank. However, we do have a number of volunteer drivers that may be able to assist.

For more information about the dates of the next CST programme please contact Sarah Sluman on:

t: 01392 824752, option 1 or e: [email protected]

"There is no argument that my wife is brighter." Husband of participant

(1) https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/cognitive-stimulation-therapy-cst-summary-of-evidence-on-cost-effectiveness
(2) Aimee Spector, Professor of Old Age Clinical Psychology, Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology,
University College London www.ucl.ac.uk/international-cognitive-stimulation-therapy
(3) Quote from http://www.cstdementia.com/page/the-evidence-base