Our mission is simple but deeply important: to bring people together, to recognise the signs of loneliness and memory loss, and to ensure that no one in our community feels invisible, forgotten, or alone, especially during the times of year when companionship and kindness mean the most.

Why This Campaign Matters

Loneliness is far more than a passing emotion; it’s a growing public health issue that can affect both the mind and body. Studies show that prolonged loneliness can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and even dementia itself. For those already living with memory issues, isolation can deepen confusion, accelerate decline, and erode self-worth.

Often, the signs are subtle:

  • Withdrawing from friends, neighbours, or social activities
  • Neglecting meals, hygiene, or daily routines
  • Becoming easily disoriented or forgetful
  • Showing signs of sadness, frustration, or anxiety

Recognising these small but important changes and responding with understanding can transform someone’s day, or even their life.

Credits: Facebook; Author: Algarve Care Services ;

A Very Special Launch

As we prepare to launch the Share Bear Campaign, we are collecting 200 teddy bears that will each be gifted in a very special way to individuals in our community who are living alone or living with dementia. Each bear will carry a message of comfort and connection, a simple reminder that someone cares, that they are seen, and that they are not forgotten.

Taking place in November, these gifts will mark the beginning of our campaign, symbolising the warmth and compassion that we hope to spread throughout the community.

The Heart of the Share Bear Campaign

Beyond the teddy bears, the Share Bear Campaign will continue to:

  • Raise awareness about the signs of loneliness and memory loss
  • Encourage neighbours, families, and local groups to reach out and reconnect
  • Share real stories that highlight how small acts of kindness can make a profound difference
  • Provide information and guidance on how to support those living with dementia or struggling with isolation

How You Can Help

In preparation for the launch, we’re asking our wonderful community to join us in spreading kindness by donating clean, unwanted teddy bears. The bears need to be a minimum size of 15cm high up to apx 30cm.
You can drop off your bears at any of our collection points, which are listed on our social media pages, Algarve Care Services on Facebook or Algarvecare247 on Instagram.

For more information or to find your nearest drop-off location, please call us on 927 688 677.

Bear collection deadline: 1st November 2025

Please also like and follow our social media pages for updates, heartwarming stories, and details about the big Share Bear launch event.

Community Support and Donations

We are also reaching out to local community groups, charities, and fundraising organisations who may wish to support this meaningful initiative.
If your group is raising funds for community or wellbeing projects and would like to donate to the Share Bear Campaign, please contact me directly at kelly@algarvecare.com.

Your generosity will help us bring comfort, connection, and hope to those who need it most.

Together, we can make a difference, one bear, one smile, and one act of kindness at a time.