Chartwell House Care Home in Broadstairs has been named as a finalist for the Dementia Friendly Community Project Award at the Dementia Care Awards 2025.
The national awards, taking place on June 19 in London, celebrate excellence across dementia services, recognising initiatives that create meaningful impact through innovation, inclusion, and a person-centred approach.
The Dementia Friendly Community Project Award specifically honours initiatives that actively support individuals living with dementia while strengthening connections across the wider community.
Chartwell House’s finalist status highlights its work in bringing people together through the universal language of music.
In 2023, Chartwell House partnered with Broadstairs Folk Week to launch the town’s first Dementia friendly folk interactive band and dance event. Now entering its third year, the event has become a celebrated fixture in the calendar—creating a space where residents, loved ones, and the community come together in an inclusive celebration.
The inaugural concert welcomed 30 attendees. By 2024, that number had grown to more than 50. With clear instructions, gentle rhythms, seated dancing and an accessible environment, the concert is designed to ensure that everyone, including those living with dementia or mobility needs, can engage fully and confidently.
Jude Coveney, Admissions Manager at Chartwell House, said: “This event is more than music—it’s a shared moment of joy that breaks down barriers and brings people together.
“We see residents light up with energy and families reconnect in the most beautiful, unexpected ways.”
The concert is part of Chartwell House’s Life Enrichment Programme with principles of Connect, Contribute, Grow, Move, and Feel. Through music, movement, and memory, residents connect with others and contribute their presence and stories.
Residents described the event as “the best time of my life,” while a family member said: “It was excellent fun for all of us—Teresa loved it.”
Former Folk Week Artistic Director Kim Headley added: “In all my years with Folk Week, I have never seen something so beautiful.”
Ameet Kotecha, Founder and Managing Director of Boutique Care Homes, said: “This recognition affirms our belief in care so good, it’s unexpected. Chartwell House has shown how dementia care can extend far beyond the home—uniting communities through creativity, compassion, and connection.”
I LOST MY DAD – FIVE MONTHS AGO HE HAD DEMINTIA- STILL MISS HIM.