Lorraine Thomas, founder of View From My Window, Legacy Strategist and award-winning property entrepreneur, has completed an overnight “Jailbreak” challenge inside Shepton Mallet Prison to raise funds and awareness for Reminiscence Learning a charity supporting people living with dementia and the families who care for them.
The fundraiser took place ahead of Dementia Action Week (18–24 May) and saw participants locked inside Shepton Mallet Prison overnight while raising “bail money” through escape-style challenges, yard exercise and activities.
For Lorraine, the challenge was deeply personal.
In 2016, she made the life-changing decision to leave her city career to become a full-time carer for her father during his battle with dementia and Parkinson’s disease.
“What followed were some of the most challenging yet meaningful years of my life,”
Lorraine shared.
“There were sleepless nights, emotional exhaustion and moments where accessing support felt impossible at times. Dementia doesn’t just affect one person – it imprisons entire families.”
Thousands of families across Lambeth and Croydon are currently affected by dementia, with many unpaid carers balancing work, parenting and caring responsibilities behind the scenes every day.
“That’s why this challenge mattered so much to me,”
Lorraine said.
“Reminiscence Learning provides vital support and understanding for families navigating dementia, and I wanted to help raise awareness for the amazing work they do.
“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who donated and supported the challenge. Together, we’ve helped raise more than £9,000 for this worthy charity.”
Participants spent the night inside Shepton Mallet Prison once home to the infamous Kray twins Ronnie and Reggie and recognised as one of the world’s oldest working prisons.
Lorraine also documented parts of the experience online, sharing honest reflections and behind-the-scenes moments throughout the fundraiser to encourage more open conversations around dementia, caregiving and community support.
Through her platform, View From My Window, Lorraine continues to champion conversations around legacy, resilience, housing and social impact while supporting causes that affect families and communities across the UK.
Reminiscence Learning supports people living with dementia and their carers through activity sessions, education, dementia awareness training and practical family support.
