The Dot Collective provides accessible, professional theatre and creative activities for those living in care and with dementia. Their aim is to help reduce loneliness and social isolation, offering cognitive stimulation while at the same time uniting families and carers in a joyful and positive experience.

Thanks to a recent grant awarded by the Foundation, The Dot Collective brought two productions (a Christmas performance and another in the summer) to care homes and dementia groups in Bexhill, Hastings and Eastbourne.

Case study

A story from a beneficiary as told by a member of staff at the Dot Collective:

"At one of the care homes we performed at, we met a lady who was visiting her mum who suffered from dementia and had just moved in the week before. She told us that her mum used to be a drama teacher and an actress when she was younger. The mum seemed a little stressed before the show, but as the show went on she started to look more engaged, laughing and enjoying the performance with everyone else in the room. After the show, her daughter privately came to thank us.

She said: ‘It's been a really unpleasant time for all of us, with little joy. But today for the first time in ages my mum seemed like herself, more relaxed, and I was able to enjoy the time I spent with her. I just want to thank you for creating a morning of joy. My mum now has forgotten she doesn't like it here, and if the days can be filled with activities like yours, then I know she'll be okay.'"

Find out more about The Dot Collective on their website.

Our Funding Priorities

This grant was awarded through our Improving Health funding priority, which supports those with physical and mental health needs, those who desire healthier lifestyles, and those who may live with life-limiting conditions or disabilities.

Read more about Improving Health and donate to our pooled fund.