Dementia Action Week 2026
Dementia Action Week is a time to raise awareness of the experiences of people affected by dementia. This year, it takes place from 18 to 24 May.
Held each year across the UK, the week brings together charities, health services, community organisations and local partners to raise awareness, challenge stigma and encourage people to take action.
Caring for someone with dementia can be emotionally and physically demanding. It can often lead to isolation, stress and a decline in mental health and wellbeing.
This Dementia Action Week, we are encouraging Carers to look after themselves too. This includes learning what support is available, finding ways to reduce the impact of caring on their own lives, and recognising the importance of sharing their experiences.
Dementia Carer Support in Action
Adam and Neil became Co-Carers for their father after he was diagnosed with vascular dementia.
To help Adam understand dementia and how best to support their father, Neil took him along to dementia Carer support groups. However, Adam, who has learning difficulties, found the groups difficult to engage with.
With support from a dementia adviser at Alzheimer’s Society, practical sessions were created especially for Adam. These used visual explanations to help him understand dementia in a way that worked for him.
By reaching out for support, Adam and Neil felt happier, healthier and more confident in their caring role.
Anna also became a Carer for her mother following a diagnosis of vascular dementia.
Having previously cared for her father, stepping into this role again had a significant impact on Anna’s own mental health and wellbeing. At first, she felt as though she was on “autopilot”, but over time she has learned to appreciate the small things and find moments of joy in her caring role.
There are still many challenges, but Anna’s account of her experience is incredibly powerful. It reminds other Carers that they are not alone.
Read more about Adam, Neil and Anna’s stories below.
Support Available for you
Throughout the week, the Dementia Carers Hub and partners are running events to help you with just that, helping you access the support you deserve.
Check out some taking place near you below.
Age Connects West Midlands
Age Connects West Midlands (formerly Age Concern) have drop-in sessions throughout the week aimed specifically at unpaid Dementia Carers.
They provide Carers the opportunity to ask questions to specialist Dementia Advisors.
Monday 18th May | 10am – 12pm | Communitea Café, 76-78 Boldmere Road, B73 5TJ
Tuesday 19th May | 10am – 12pm | Communitea Café, 76-78 Boldmere Road, B73 5TJ
Wednesday 20th May | 10am – 12pm | Hawkesley Community Centre, 51 Edgewood Road, B38 9RN
Wednesday 20th May | 12 pm – 1pm | Sutton Coldfield URC, 1 Brassington Avenue, B73 6AA
Thursday 21st May| 10am – 12pm | MoorfieldHall Community Centre, Hartshill Road, B34 6QX
Friday 22nd May | 10am – 12pm | Moorfield Hall Community Centre, Hartshill Road, B34 6QX
Age UK Birmingham
Age UK Birmingham are also having an active presence throughout the week with their Dementia Action Week Roadshow.
The activities include pop-ups, Carers Groups, and day-time parties, meaning there is something for all Carers throughout the week.
Monday 18th May | 10am – 1pm | Barclays Bank Pop-up | High Street, Birmingham, B4 7T
Monday 18th May | 10am – 12pm | Dementia Carers Group | The Erdington Club, Sutton New Rd, B23 6TD
Thursday 21st May | 10am -12pm | Ashcroft Pop-up | The Moorings, Hockley, B18 5SD
Friday 22nd May | 11am – 12:30pm | Day Care Party ‘Live well with Dementia’ | Perry Tree Centre, Dovedale Road, B23 5BX (SOLD OUT)
Dementia Carers Count
Dementia Carers Count also have opportunities for Dementia Carers to learn more about their role, both before and after Dementia Action Week.
Can’t make any of these events? You can also access Dementia Carers Count’s Virtual Carers Centre at any time for information, advice or a helping hand.
Dementia Carers Hub
Check out all of the support we provide on the Dementia Carers Hub page below.
