Dementia awareness
To coincide with National Dementia Action Week 2025, which takes place 19 - 25 May, NHS Gloucestershire has launched a survey to find out what people know about dementia and the services that are available, and help improve the care and support that people living with dementia and their families receive.
You can complete the survey online here -www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/dementiaactionweek2025
It should take no longer than five minutes to complete. The closing date is Friday 20 June.
If you prefer, you can download and print a copy of the survey below and return it by free post.
What is dementia and what support is available locally?
Alzheimer's Research UK have created this informative video which explains which diseases cause dementia, how they affect the brain and what symptoms they lead to.
The Forest of Dean Dementia Action Alliance (FoDDAA) is an informal partnership initiative of organisations and individuals from across the public, private and community sectors of the Forest of Dean District wanting to make a difference to those living with dementia and other conditions as well.
It has a new website where you can find information on what is available locally as well as information and resources about dementia. Visit www.foddaa.co.uk
You can also follow FoDDAA on Facebook.
NHS Gloucestershire also provide:
- a memory assessment service
- community dementia nurses
- an information and education service
Dementia awareness sessions
The Forest of Dean Dementia Action Alliance (FoDDAA) can provide free, informal dementia awareness sessions to individuals, community groups, schools and organisations. This is done locally on a voluntary basis.
If you would like to find out more about what can be made available locally please email [email protected]
The 'Let's Talk Dementia' board game
The 'Let's Talk Dementia' board game was developed with other members of the Forest of Dean Dementia Action Alliance. They are in every library in the county and can be booked out free, similar to a book. Find out more about the board game and view other resources too.
Members of dementia action alliances across Gloucestershire are supporting us to review and update the board game card content. If you have used the board game and have suggestions about how it could be improved please do let us know by emailing [email protected]
Forest of Dean Dementia Action Alliance
Forest of Dean District Council is a member of the Forest of Dean Dementia Action Alliance (FoDDAA) which is a partnership of organisations and individuals who are working to:
- make sure that everyone in the district living with dementia is respected and can continue to enjoy living their lives in their own community as well as possible for as long as possible
- support the wider community to understand dementia and inspire and enable people to do things which contribute to a dementia friendly community, which are generally more welcoming communities
- develop a network of local community champions who will support each other and the wider community
Visit the FoDDAA website to find a list of regularly updated events. The events tab also lists dementia accessible venues - buildings which have been self audited to ascertain how dementia inclusive they are.
Join the Forest of Dean District Dementia Action Alliance
The FoDDAA is made up of individuals, statutory organisations, voluntary groups and businesses - people who are using their skills, knowledge, connections and time to help others. Everyone can make a difference, if you would like to get involved or find out more please get in touch by emailing [email protected]
Whether you are a business, group or individual, find out more about joining the FoDDAA.
If you have a space that you would like to make sure is accessible to people living with dementia or sensory loss, find out how FoDDAA can support you.
Domestic abuse and dementia
Understanding domestic abuse in the context of dementia can be complex. It is important to understand the history and personality of the person with dementia. Alzheimer's UK recommend filling in a 'this is me' form.
Someone who has been a victim of domestic abuse and then develops dementia may find it much harder to come forward. Their experience of abuse and isolation may be increased. Dementia may also cause a victim to re-live trauma experienced by previous abuse.
Someone who had been abusive to their partner who then develops dementia may cause significant risk to the victim. They may try and exert their power and control over their partner or family member, and become more unpredictable. In these circumstances, please speak to adult social care and Gloucestershire Domestic Abuse Support Service.
If you would like leaflets to share with your organisation contact us by emailing [email protected].
View the following leaflet for further information and support for dementia and domestic abuse.
Free online carer aware training
Many people will start helping someone out and find themselves, over time, delivering an increasing amount of care to that person, as well as becoming more and more indispensable to their health and wellbeing.
It is important to recognise yourself as a carer, to find out what support is available to you and ensure that you are able to look after yourself and take breaks from your role.
Gloucestershire County Council offer a free adult carer awareness e-learning course. You can access the course on its website.