Day opportunities

Lewisham older adults day service - culturally rooted support for older adults, delivered with dignity, history, and heart.

The Calabash Centre is a Lewisham-run day service providing support, connection and care to older residents - with a proud history of serving the African and Caribbean community in the borough. Following the merger of Calabash, Cinnamon Court, and Cedar Court in 2019, the Calabash Centre has remained open and active as a vital hub for daytime support, friendship and cultural identity. 

While services have been streamlined in line with national pressures and changing demand, Lewisham Council remains committed to honouring the legacy and importance of Calabash - ensuring it continues to serve as a space by, for and with the community. 

Who the service is for

This service is open to Lewisham residents aged 65+ who:

• feel isolated or want more social contact
• are managing physical health issues or mild-to-moderate dementia
• want to access culturally relevant services and peer support
• may need help with mobility or personal care during the day
• are eligible for Adult Social Care support 

Calabash welcomes people from all backgrounds, while maintaining its role as a cultural anchor for older adults from African and Caribbean heritage.

Location and accessibility 

Calabash Centre, 24–26 George Lane, Lewisham, London SE13 6HH.

• step-free, accessible entrance
• wheelchair-accessible toilets
• centrally located, close to Lewisham High Street and local buses
• community transport options available via referral

What the centre offers

The Calabash Centre provides a safe, social and culturally affirming space for people to spend the day. Activities are co-designed with service users and often include:

• hot African-Caribbean and British meals
• music, singing and dancing 
• cultural celebrations and Black heritage events 
• gentle exercise and movement classes 
• reminiscence and memory-based games 
• arts, crafts and creative expression 
• peer groups and health conversations 
• access to hairdressing and chiropody on site

We also continue to support the African Caribbean Active Elders Group, which meets regularly at the Calabash and contributes to shaping its future. 

Acknowledging the history 

In 2019, Lewisham Council confirmed the merger of its three adult day centres - Calabash, Cedar Court, and Cinnamon Court - to better reflect changing care needs and reduce underused capacity. 

The decision, while financially necessary, acknowledged strong community concern and affirmed:

• that Calabash would remain open as a centre
• that African and Caribbean elders would continue to be meaningfully included and celebrated
• that a Calabash Users Group would be formed to give service users more say over how the centre is run

The Council recognises the legacy of the Windrush generation, the impact of systemic inequalities, and the vital role of culturally specific services in addressing social isolation and injustice. 

Community voice 

The Council is working to strengthen dialogue with the community. Calabash users, carers and advocates are encouraged to join our co-production sessions and feedback forums to: 

• influence the design of services
• help shape culturally tailored support
• share experiences and priorities with staff and leadership 

For engagement opportunities, email: yourvoicematters@lewisham.gov.uk 

Transport and meals

• community transport support may be available for eligible residents
• fresh meals are cooked daily, with both traditional and health-conscious options
• meal and transport contributions are assessed based on your income 

How to access the service 

You may need a Care Act assessment to determine if you qualify for funded support. You can also use direct payments or self-fund if preferred. 

Ways to refer

• speak to your GP or hospital team
• contact your social worker or Neighbourhood Coordinator
• call Adult Social Care directly 

 Lewisham Adult Social Care: 020 8314 7777 

 Email: adultsocialcare@lewisham.gov.uk

Personalised daytime support for people living with dementia in Lewisham.

The Ladywell Dementia Day Service offers tailored daytime care and support for Lewisham residents living with dementia.  Based at the Ladywell Centre, the service focuses on maintaining dignity, independence, and social connection for people with mild to more advanced dementia. Sessions are designed to support not just the person using the service, but also their carers - providing valuable respite and reassurance in a safe, structured environment.   

Who the service is for   

This service is for adults in Lewisham who: 

• have been diagnosed with dementia (including alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, or early-onset dementia)
• would benefit from a small, calm and structured group setting 
• may need personal care, mobility support, or help engaging in daily activities
• have eligible care and support needs under the care act
• may be supported by a carer or living alone

We work with individuals and families to ensure care is personalised, respectful, and grounded in lived experience. 

Location and accessibility

The Ladywell Centre, 148 Dressington Avenue, Ladywell, London SE4 1JF.

• ground-floor access
• fully wheelchair accessible
• accessible toilets and mobility-friendly facilities
• on-site parking available
• close to public transport and local amenities

What the centre offers

The Ladywell Centre offers a calm and engaging setting, with activities designed around the social, physical, emotional and intellectual needs of people living with dementia.

Activities include:

• reminiscence sessions and memory games
• creative arts, crafts, and sensory tasks
• music, singing and therapeutic movement
• chair-based exercise and light physical activity
• gardening, nature walks and seasonal projects
• group conversation and communication practice
• support with eating, hydration and nutrition
• activities are delivered in small, task-focused groups to build confidence, familiarity and routine

The service also provides:

• chiropody and footcare visits
• mobility support and equipment
• assistance with personal care (if required)
• personalised dementia care approach

Every individual is different. that’s why we tailor support based on:

• personal interests and life history
• current cognitive ability
• sensory needs or preferences
• cultural background and language
• existing support networks and routines
• staff are dementia-trained and focused on creating a warm, respectful, and non-clinical environment where people feel comfortable and valued.

Carer involvement

We know that carers are a vital part of a person’s support network. that’s why:

• you’re invited to be part of care planning
• we can work around respite needs or weekly routines
• our staff can offer updates and practical advice
• you’ll be signposted to additional help such as carers’ groups and transport options

Visit our [support for carers] page to learn more.

Transport and meals

• transport may be available for eligible users via community schemes
• hot meals and refreshments are provided
• charges for meals or transport will depend on your financial assessment

How to access the service

You’ll usually need a care act assessment from Lewisham adult social care to access this service.

Referrals can come from:

• your GP or hospital care team
• a social worker or neighbourhood coordinator
• a self-referral by you or your carer

Lewisham Adult Social Care: 020 8314 7777

email: gateway@Lewisham.gov.uk

• contact us online

Learning disability and autism day opportunities - empowering people to connect, express and thrive in their community

The Mulberry Hub is a vibrant, fully accessible day service in New Cross designed for adults with learning disabilities and autistic people. Operated by Choice Support, the centre provides a welcoming space where individuals can build confidence, connect with others, and enjoy a mix of meaningful, creative, and practical activities — all tailored to their personal goals.   

With a sensory garden, wellbeing spaces, and a wide range of activity rooms, the Mulberry Hub is a place where people are supported to live fuller, more independent lives.  

Who the service is for

This service supports adults aged 18+ in Lewisham who:

• have a learning disability or are autistic
• would benefit from structured, daytime support
• want to build social connections, life skills and community confidence
• may have complex needs, including physical disabilities or communication barriers
• are eligible for support under the Care Act or have a direct payment

Location and accessibility

The Mulberry Centre, 15 Amersham Vale, New Cross, London SE14 6LE.

• fully wheelchair accessible
• sensory garden and relaxation areas
• hoists and adapted toilets available
• nearby transport links and community venues
• step-free access throughout  

What the centre offers

At Mulberry, no two days are the same. The programme is developed with input from users and carers, and may include:

• Art, crafts and creative media
• Digital skills, online safety and gaming clubs 
• Gardening, eco-projects and sensory play
• Wellbeing and relaxation sessions
• Communication and expression groups
• Social circles, drama and storytelling
• Job readiness, volunteering and life-skills coaching
• Advocacy, decision-making and rights-based workshops
• Events, performances and exhibitions

Activities take place both on-site and out in the community, with 1:1 or small group options available.

Person-Centred Planning

Every individual who attends Mulberry has a personal support plan developed in partnership with:

• The person themselves
• Their family or carer
• Social workers, health professionals or advocates

Staff use a strengths-based approach and can support individuals with:

• Communication challenges
• Sensory or mobility needs
• Mental health conditions
• Physical or learning disabilities  

A Voice That Matters

The Mulberry Hub is committed to co-production. Users help:

• What sessions look like
• Who delivers them
• How feedback is gathered
• What changes are made over time 
• Everyone is supported to speak out and make choices that reflect their needs and aspirations.

Mulberry & the 100 Day Challenge

Mulberry is an active participant in Lewisham’s borough-wide 100 Day Challenge, co-producing better support with: 

• Adults with learning disabilities 
• Autistic people
• Families and carers
• Local providers and support workers
• We’re exploring: 
• Community-based day offers 
• Peer-led sessions and mentoring 
• More flexible support for those using direct payments 
• Activities rooted in identity, culture and creativity 

Transport & Meals

Transport may be arranged through community transport or with travel training support

Refreshments are available and activities often include cooking and healthy eating

Direct payment holders may use their budget to cover costs for support workers, transport or activity fees

How to Access the Service

Access is usually arranged following a Care Act assessment, but families can also explore self-funding or using direct payments.

Referrals can be made by: 

• Lewisham social workers or education teams 
• Health professionals
• Carers or family members
• You, directly

Lewisham Adult Social Care: 020 8314 7777

Email: gateway@lewisham.gov.uk