Background Over 940,000 people in the UK are thought to be living with dementia (Dementia UK. Trustees’ annual report and consolidated financial statements. 2022), yet people with dementia have not accessed palliative care services to the same extent that those with other life-limiting conditions do. The role of palliative care services is recognised in enabling a person with dementia and their family to live well, plan for the future and to die well (Hospice UK. Hospice enabled dementia care: the first steps. 2015). Most people with dementia develop communication difficulties. Communication partner training aims to change conversation behaviours, enhancing the conversational skills and confidence of a person with communication difficulties and someone close to them (Volkmer, Spector, Swinburn, et al. BMC Geriatr. 2021;21(1):642). There is evidence that this intervention positively contributes towards the quality of life of people with dementia (Volkmer, Walton, Swinburn, et al. Pilot Feasibility Stud. 2023;9(1):87). In the five boroughs served by the hospice there is no available communication group therapy for people with dementia.

Aim To pilot and evaluate a course for people with dementia and someone close to them, focusing on improving communication using the Better Conversations communication therapy model (Beeke, Bloch. (eds). Better Conversations with communication difficulties: a practical guide for clinicians. 2023), and including sessions on advance care planning, art therapy, namaste and a facilitated carers’ group.

Method The published literature on communication partner training was reviewed and a working group formed involving the speech therapy, wellbeing, social work, art therapy, nursing and community action teams. The course was advertised to the local speech therapy teams and the dementia service at one of the local hospitals. Six participants were recruited and attended the pilot course. At the end of the course two Speech and Language Therapy MSc students ran a focus group for participants. Thematic analysis was used to identify the key themes from the focus group.

Results Themes derived from the focus group included: Uncertainty and reassurance, socialising, communication and pressure.

Conclusion The course was positively received with primary benefits identified in communication changes and social contact.