Contented Dementia

Melissa Clegg is a trained coach in the SPECAL® method, developed by the Contented Dementia Trust. This is a unique and effective

approach to understanding and managing dementia, focusing on

sustainable sense of well being for the individual with dementia and their families.

Why Choose the SPECAL® Method?

There are many reasons to choose the SPECAL® Method, including:

Designed specifically to work with the condition, regardless of the underlying cause
Prioritizes the individual's well-being and fosters a sense of security and comfort
Can be learned by anyone supporting a person with dementia, including primary carer, children and even grandchildren
Emphasises working with dementia as a manageable disability rather than battling against it

What are the Benefits?

Research by the Royal College of Nursing and Kings College London (2017-2019), have shown patients who have received SPECAL® care:

Experience improved well being
Take fewer drugs
Demonstrate a plateau effect in the progression of their disease and improved confidence
Experience a significant improvement in their quality of life and also for those involved in their care
Remain in their own home for longer, resulting in considerable care cost savings
Have enhanced interactions, motivation, transformed relationships and greater resilience

Read more about the research here

Learn About the SPECAL® Approach

Family and Friends Introduction Course

This course is designed for those you are personally concerned about a family member or friend with dementia. Our unique understanding of dementia shows us why common sense communication can often cause more harm than good. The SPECAL® method will help you develop practical communication skills which will be invaluable in the day to day interactions with people who have dementia. You will gain an effective set of tools which enable lines of communication to stay open, reducing stress and promoting well being for all involved.

"This course has immeasurably helped me, my mother, my sister, my children and most importantly my father, who suffers from vascular dementia. He is happy and we are all able to understand, empathise and enjoy each other. This course has really transformed the way we all approach things, for the better." William (January 2025)

"Mel was fantastic at explaining dementia using simple analogies and how the disease affects Mum. The advice that was given of how to communicate with Mum to enhance her quality of life was brilliant and easy to apply quickly. It has an immediate impact on the difficult situation. I would highly recommend Mel to any family dealing with dementia." Nicky (May 2025)

Health and Social Care Professionals Course

The SPECAL® method will help healthcare professional develop practical skills which will be invaluable in their interactions with people with dementia. You will gain an effective set of tools to assist stress free communication, allowing them to work more effectively with their patients and clients, whilst promoting dignity and well being for all involved. Activities of daily living become so much easier when the care worker is able to stay on the same wavelength as the person with dementia.