Free event to support people living with dementia to take place in May
Date added: 10 May 2023
Free event to support people living with dementia to take place in May
People living with, and caring for those with dementia, will be able to find out more about a range of specialist support services available to them in Kent and Medway at a free event later this month.
The Kent Dementia Showcase (on Friday 19 May, from 10am to 3:30pm, at the Kent Event Centre, Kent Showground, Detling) is open to the general public and healthcare providers.
Founded and organised by members of Kent Dementia Action Alliance (KDAA) including NHS Kent and Medway, Kent and Medway NHS & Social Care Partnership Trust and Kent County Council, the event offers people affected by dementia direct access to health and care providers and voluntary sector organisations.
As well as being able to meet and talk to relevant experts and professionals, people can connect with local dementia support services, learn about cutting-edge research and try different activities in an informal and inclusive space.
A series of talks from healthcare professionals will run throughout the day and there will be refreshment and relaxation zones, with care staff on-hand to make sure everybody feels comfortable.
The KDAA Dementia Friendly Kent Awards, recognising organisations and individuals who continue to benefit the lives of those living with dementia, and judged by people affected by dementia and their supporters, will be presented at 2pm.
Roger Gough, Kent County Council Leader, who is presenting the awards with Helen Whatley MP, said: “Many of us know someone living with dementia. But, it isn’t an inevitable part of ageing which is why we’re working hard to raise awareness of the things you can do to reduce the risks for later life, such as keeping mentally active, moving and eating nutritious food.
“We also want residents to know where to get help and support and, however you are affected by dementia, the Kent Dementia Showcase is our county's free dedicated event for you.
“I look forward to meeting many of you there and celebrating the wonderful work happening to ensure our communities are places where dementia is understood, respected and supported.”
Dr Afifa Qazi, Chief Medical Officer and Consultant Psychiatrist at Kent and Medway NHS & Social Care Partnership Trust (KMPT), and award winner of the “Psychiatrist of the Year” for 2022 awarded by the Royal College of Psychiatrists, is leading the work across KMPT services to transform dementia care in Kent & Medway. Afifa said:
"The Dementia Action Alliance works hard to create dementia friendly communities which should be a top priority for everyone across the county to participate in.
“Dementia currently affects over an estimated 24,000 people in Kent & Medway and we need everyone to have a greater understanding of the support services available and ensure they are able to input into service development too.
“Initiatives such as the Dementia Showcase and the annual Dementia Friendly Kent Awards can play an important role in raising awareness about the condition as well as celebrating some fantastic initiatives in Kent and Medway to support people with dementia and their loved ones."
Kate Langford, NHS Kent and Medway Medical Director, said:
“Through the Kent Dementia Showcase, Kent Dementia Action Alliance, NHS Kent and Medway and Kent County Council (KCC) are working together to raise awareness and help people living with dementia and those caring for them find the right help at the right time.
“It’s a dementia-friendly event. If you would like to find out about support available in Kent from the NHS, KCC and voluntary and community groups, please do register to come along.”
To reserve your place and find out more about The Kent Dementia Showcase, please visit: https://www.kentdaa.org/kent-dementia-showcase-23
Doors open at 9.30am for professionals to network.
