Buddy’s Place is Ireland’s first community café co-created with and facilitated by people living with dementia. Open every Thursday since December 2024, it offers a welcoming, dementia-inclusive space where people can connect, create, and belong. Proudly supported by sponsors 3FE, Bean & Goose, Broderick Brothers, and Oatier.

The café was developed through a series of weekly creative workshops led by artist Motoko Fujita early in 2024. 

Based at St Joseph’s, Buddy’s Place brings the wider community into the heart of the care setting while creating meaningful opportunities for people living with dementia. Volunteers use hospitality skills gained through previous work and life experience, providing a renewed sense of purpose, confidence, and connection.

Today, Buddy’s Place has grown into a vibrant community hub that strengthens local networks, promotes understanding of dementia, and creates joyful, creative experiences for everybody. Residents, families, carers, local groups, parents and babies, children, young people, and individuals of all ages come together to share experiences and build friendships.

Alongside the café, we host weekly art workshops and learning sessions that are open to the public. These creative activities will contribute to a craft market and community celebration planned for late 2026.

Join us every Thursday from 10 am - 12 pm to experience the warmth, creativity, and community spirit of Buddy’s Place.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.