The Dementia Pub, located on ward 21, has been redesigned to create a familiar and comforting environment for patients living with dementia.
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Comforting space
The space does not serve alcohol but has been designed to reflect the look and feel of a traditional pub, with the aim of supporting reminiscence therapy, relaxed social interaction and time with loved ones during hospital stays.
Bellew said: “It was an honour to open the refurbished Dementia Pub at Arrowe Park Hospital and meet the incredible patients, families and staff who use it.
“When someone is living with dementia, familiar surroundings and simple moments of connection can make such a big difference.”
He added the space showed “how much care and thought” had gone into creating an environment that felt welcoming and supportive.
Jenine Kelly, dementia matron at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, said the refurbishment had created a “wonderful space” for patients and families.
She added: “Reminiscence spaces are incredibly important for people living with dementia because they help spark memories, encourage communication and promote social interaction.
‘Moments of joy’
“Something as simple as sitting in a pub style environment, listening to music or playing games can help reduce distress and bring moments of joy during what can be a difficult hospital stay.”
Janelle Holmes, chief executive at Wirral University Teaching Hospital, said creating familiar environments for patients living with dementia was an important part of care across its hospitals.
She said the pub was a “fantastic example” of how thoughtful spaces could make a meaningful difference to patients and families.
The opening comes amid wider work around dementia friendly hospitality spaces.
In 2023, a University of Stirling scheme to support pubs, restaurants and cafes in making dementia friendly adaptations was backed by £7.25m of Government funding.
The scheme highlighted changes such as clearer signage, visible bars and toilets, quieter seating areas, easy to read menus and staff awareness training.
In the same year, a Joseph Holt pub in Greater Manchester launched a weekly dementia support group for people living with the condition and their carers.
The news also follows a recent rise in wellness-focused pub concepts, including Holland & Barrett’s first wellness pub in London, which offered alcohol free hydration pints and wellbeing advice.
