Hampshire & Isle of Wight Dementia Alliance launches during Dementia Action Week

Logo featuring four figures gathered round a purple heart for dementia. The text read HIOW Dementia Alliance. Better together, for dementia support.

Dementia Action Week which this year runs 18th to 24th May, provides an important opportunity to highlight the challenges faced by people living with dementia and those who support them, while also recognising the progress being made locally. This year, Age Concern Hampshire is also marking the launch of the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Dementia Alliance which is a new collaborative network focused on strengthening dementia support across the region.

The Alliance brings together people with lived experience, carers, community organisations and local partners, with lived experience at its heart, to improve how dementia support works in everyday life.

By working more closely together, members aim to make it easier for people to find the right information, access appropriate services, and feel better supported within their communities.

At its heart, the Alliance is focused on practical change. It seeks to improve coordination between organisations, reduce confusion when navigating services, and ensure that support is more joined-up and accessible for those who need it most.

Working together to improve dementia support

The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Dementia Alliance has been formed around several key priorities:

  • Bringing people and organisations together
  • Sharing information and good practice
  • Improving signposting to support
  • Supporting more joined-up local services

By connecting services and encouraging collaboration, the Alliance aims to build a stronger, more consistent support network for people affected by dementia across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Dementia can affect every aspect of daily life, not just for the person diagnosed but also for their families and carers. One of the key aims of the Alliance is to  reduce the barriers people often face when trying to access help, so that support feels clearer, more connected and easier to reach at the right time.

Brogan Rehill, Head of Strategy, Partnerships & Community Impact at Age Concern Hampshire and spokesperson for the Alliance said:
“The launch of the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Dementia Alliance during Dementia Awareness Week reflects a shared commitment to improving everyday experiences for people affected by dementia. By taking a more joined-up approach across organisations and communities, we can help ensure people get the right support at the right time.”

A shared commitment across the region

Dementia Awareness Week is a reminder of the importance of understanding, inclusion and community-based support. The launch of the Alliance builds on this by creating a structure for ongoing collaboration, ensuring that improvements are not only discussed but actively developed and shared across the region.

For communities, this means better communication between services, clearer pathways to support, and a stronger focus on lived experience shaping how services evolve.

Age Concern Hampshire’s role in supporting people affected by dementia

 Age Concern Hampshire is a local independent charity supporting older people across Hampshire. The organisation supports the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Dementia Alliance by helping to coordinate activity and bring partners together, alongside its wider work supporting older people, their families and carers through services and community support.

For further information about the alliance please contact Age Concern Hampshire directly on supporters@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk. You can also find a range of resources by following this link Managing Dementia Care – Age Concern Hampshire

Better support for dementia, through closer collaboration.
The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Dementia Alliance connects people, organisations and services to make support easier to find.

Early Access to Dementia Day Care Helps People Stay Connected and Engaged

Family Carers
Early access to day care can significantly improve quality of life for people living with dementia, yet long waiting lists for formal diagnosis and assessment are delaying access to vital support.
 
Age Concern Hampshire, which runs Care & Wellbeing Centres across the county, highlights that families can access valuable support while awaiting a formal diagnosis. The charity offers activities that include Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) and reminiscence sessions, interventions shown in research to support memory, communication, and cognitive function.

Early engagement with day care services also helps reduce isolation, supports emotional wellbeing, and encourages physical and social activity. Families frequently notice improvements in mood, confidence, and communication when support begins early.

Family Carers

“Very often, there can be long waits for formal assessments, leaving people without the structured support they need,” said Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire. “Accessing day care early ensures people can benefit from therapies and social engagement throughout the whole of their dementia journey.”
 
Age Concern Hampshire runs dedicated Care & Wellbeing Centres across the county, providing tailored day care services for people living with dementia. Free taster days are available at all Care & Wellbeing Centres, allowing families to experience the service before making any commitment. Call 01962 868545 or visit their website to find out more: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/care-and-wellbeing-services-hampshire/
 
Editor’s Notes: 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Easing the strain for family carers in Hampshire

Family Caregivers
This November, for National Family Caregivers Month, Age Concern Hampshire is highlighting both the dedication and challenges faced by the thousands of people across Hampshire who provide unpaid care for someone living with dementia, most of whom are family members. With over 25,000 people in the county providing unpaid care, many find themselves balancing multiple responsibilities while coping with the emotional and physical strain of caring for a loved one.
 
Providing care can be overwhelming, and accessing the support carers are entitled to is often complicated. Many families are unaware of funding options that could ease the financial burden, such as Local Authority support and Attendance Allowance. Navigating the application process can be time consuming and feel confusing, leaving carers without the help they need and deserve.
 
Age Concern Hampshire’s Information Service team is available to guide carers through these challenges, offering advice, support, and practical assistance with applications. Their goal is to ensure carers do not miss out on financial support that can make a real difference in their daily lives.
 
In addition, Age Concern Hampshire provides vital respite through its Care and Wellbeing Centres in Dibden, New Milton, Locks Heath, and Yateley. These centres offer  tailored day care for people living with dementia, including stimulating activities and social engagement with transport and lunch optional. Carers benefit from the opportunity to have time to themselves and focus on their own wellbeing while knowing their loved ones are supported in a safe and friendly environment.
 
Family Caregivers
 
Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire, said, “Family carers in Hampshire give so much, often without recognition. Between the emotional strain and navigating complex support systems, it is essential they have access to guidance and practical help. Our teams are here to make that process easier and to provide respite so carers can recharge.”
 
For more information or support, visit https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/care-and-wellbeing-services-hampshire or call 01962 868545.
 
Editor’s Notes: 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Frogmore Care & Wellbeing Centre Celebrates Three Years of Supporting Older People in Yateley

Age Concern Hampshire Social Groups
 Age Concern Hampshire’s Frogmore Care & Wellbeing Centre is celebrating its third anniversary this November with a week of special events, culminating in a community Open Afternoon on Friday 7 November, from 1–3pm.

Since opening its doors in 2022, the Frogmore Centre has provided a welcoming space for older people in Yateley and the surrounding areas. The centre offers a range of services designed to support wellbeing and independence, including specialist day care for people living with dementia.

To mark three successful years, the Centre will host a Week of Celebration, with clients enjoying themed activities such as crafts and cakes, a cosy Bonfire Night celebration with cakes and hot chocolate, and Remembrance Day poppy crafts to honour and reflect together.

The celebrations will conclude with a special Open Afternoon on Friday 7 November, offering the perfect opportunity for anyone who might enjoy day care for themselves or a loved one to see what the Centre has to offer.

“We’re so proud to be celebrating three years of care, connection and community,” said Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire. “Our team provides tailored support for older people, including those living with dementia, in a warm and friendly setting. The Open Afternoon is a great way for local families to see how we can make a difference.”

Age Concern Hampshire Social Groups

Visitors to the Open Afternoon will be able to meet the team, enjoy live entertainment and light refreshments, take part in activities, and receive information and guidance about the Centre’s services and care packages.

The Open Afternoon will be held at Frogmore Care & Wellbeing Centre, Potley Hill Road, Yateley, GU46 6AG, from 1pm-3pm. To book your free place, please call 07842 306 033.

Editor’s Notes: 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Celebrating Dementia Action Week Across Hampshire

ACH Pet Therapy

Age Concern Hampshire’s Care and Wellbeing Centres in Yateley, New Milton, Locks Heath, and Dibden celebrated Dementia Action Week with a variety of activities aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals living with dementia. The charity ran sessions including music and pet therapy, which are an integral part of its ongoing commitment to providing person-centred day care in a safe and welcoming environment. 

Dementia Action Week also highlights the importance of early diagnosis, which is crucial for helping people access the right care and support at the right time. With nearly one million people in the UK living with dementia and more than 200,000 receiving a diagnosis each year, Age Concern Hampshire continues to respond to this growing need by offering high-quality, affordable day care that provides tailored support to individuals living with dementia. 

ACH Pet Therapy

“Our Care and Wellbeing Centres provide a supportive environment for individuals living with dementia, while also offering much-needed respite for family carers,” said Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire. “We offer a range of engaging activities, a two-course lunch, and optional transport, all tailored to meet individual needs.” 

Alongside highlighting early diagnosis, the week also shines a light on the increasing challenges faced by family carers. Many experience emotional and physical exhaustion, which is why Age Concern Hampshire offers vital respite care. Their day care services provide carers with peace of mind, knowing their loved ones are receiving expert care in a safe and supportive environment. 

For families seeking more information or unsure of the support available, Age Concern Hampshire offers taster days at its Care and Wellbeing Centres in Yateley, New Milton, Locks Heath, and Dibden. These sessions provide an opportunity to explore the variety of care and activities specifically designed to support individuals living with dementia. 

To learn more about Age Concern Hampshire’s Care and Wellbeing Centres or to book a free taster session, visit https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/care-and-wellbeing-services-hampshire/ or call 01962 868545. Early support makes all the difference. 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Foot Care clinics, Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. Its mission is to help people ‘Age well and Live well’. 

Age Concern Hampshire 
Centre Way 
Locks Heath 
Southampton 
SO31 6DX 

Tel: 01962 868545 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Age Concern Hampshire Expands Support to Reach More Individuals in Need

Age Concern Hampshire

Age Concern Hampshire, a local charity dedicated to supporting older adults in Hampshire, is pleased to announce the expansion of its Help at Home service in Andover, Basingstoke, Locks Heath, Havant, and neighbouring areas. Through expansion of the Help at Home service, the charity aims to reach more individuals who are struggling with daily chores due to reduced mobility, higher fall risks or declining health. 

 

The Help at Home service is designed to provide practical, day-to-day support to older adults, helping them maintain their independence and quality of life. This expansion will allow Age Concern Hampshire to assist a greater number of individuals, ensuring that those in need receive the help and support they deserve. 

 

As a result of this expansion, Age Concern Hampshire is actively seeking compassionate individuals to join its team of Home Helpers. These rewarding roles support older adults and play an essential role in maintaining independence and enhance their quality of life by providing personalised assistance with tasks such as housework, laundry, meal preparation, shopping and trips out, while also providing invaluable companionship. 

 

 

 

“Our Home Helpers play a crucial role in enhancing the lives of older adults in our communities,” said Hannah Park, Head of Operations at Age Concern Hampshire. “Their dedication and compassion are invaluable in providing essential support and companionship to those who need it most. We are actively seeking individuals who share our commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of older adults in Hampshire.” 

 

Age Concern Hampshire is currently seeking new Home Helpers to join their teams in North and South Hampshire. If you’re compassionate and empathetic and seeking a flexible role that positively impacts the lives of older adults, you can apply online by visiting their website: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/work-for-us. 

 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities.  

 

Age Concern Hampshire 

Centre Way 

Locks Heath 

Southampton 

SO31 6DX 

 

Tel: 01962 868545 

 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

Volunteers Needed to Assist Older Individuals in Hampshire

Information Service

Age Concern Hampshire is seeking volunteers to assist vulnerable older people, supporting them with form-filling tasks. As part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality of life for older individuals, Age Concern Hampshire recognises the importance of providing practical assistance to those facing challenges in navigating paperwork and online form-filling processes.

Form-filling can often be daunting for older people, particularly those who may be living alone, facing health-related issues or struggling to access vital information online. These tasks can pose considerable obstacles in older individuals accessing crucial services, benefits, and support.

Committed to addressing these challenges, the charity’s information service provides tailored home visits to aid with form-filling, helping individuals who may feel overwhelmed or isolated by the digital divide. The form-filling service, led by volunteers assists isolated and vulnerable individuals, ensuring they receive the vital guidance and support required to accurately and efficiently complete essential forms and applications such as attendance allowance or blue badge applications.

Information Service

Yvonne Hiscock, Information Service Senior Coordinator, said “Our service would not be possible without the amazing dedication from our team of volunteers. We encourage anyone with a passion for helping others and a desire to make a difference to consider volunteering with us. Together, we can ensure that vulnerable older adults receive the support they need to lead fulfilling and independent lives.”

Age Concern Hampshire are committed to building a more inclusive and supportive community where older people can thrive. Volunteering plays a pivotal role in enabling Age Concern Hampshire to provide invaluable support and even volunteering several hours can make a real difference. To discover more and explore how you can contribute to the charity through volunteering, please contact Age Concern Hampshire by calling 01962 868545 or visit their website: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/job/information-volunteer-form-filler/

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities. 

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Age Concern Hampshire
Centre Way
Locks Heath
Southampton
SO31 6DX

Tel: 01962 868545

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk

Addressing the Urgent Need for Accessible Support Services for Older Adults in Hampshire

Community Information Volunteer

Hampshire’s ongoing demographic shift highlights the critical need for accessible support services for older individuals. With a staggering 25% of the population already aged 65 and over, and projections indicating a further increase in the years ahead, the necessity for comprehensive and easily accessible support services has never been more pressing.  

In response to the challenges posed by Hampshire’s ageing population, it’s vital that older residents are able receive crucial information and support, which will allow them to thrive in their communities. With this objective in mind, Age Concern Hampshire has launched a new Location Finder feature on their website. This new function offers older individuals and their families an easy and efficient way to discover the comprehensive range of services available in their local areas.  

Community Information Volunteer 

“At Age Concern Hampshire, we recognise the challenges faced by older individuals and their families in accessing vital support services,” stated Helen Callen, CEO of Age Concern Hampshire. “With the introduction of our Location Finder, we are taking a step forward in bridging this gap by providing an easy-to-use search process that empowers older adults to readily access the assistance and information they require to thrive in their communities.” 

By offering this simplified process, Age Concern Hampshire aims to ensure that users can navigate the complexities of accessing support with ease and confidence, with options tailored to their specific needs and geographical location. Whether it’s Care and Wellbeing Centres, Foot Care Clinics, Help at Home, Information services, social groups, or IT sessions the location finder will help find those closest.  

To discover the wide range of services that Age Concern Hampshire offers in your area, please access their Location Finder using the following link: https://www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk/hampshire/ 

Age Concern Hampshire and Clodagh McKenna Join Forces for Dementia Action Week

Age Concern Hampshire

Age Concern Hampshire, in collaboration with their charity patron Clodagh McKenna, are proudly marking Dementia Action Week with a series of activities aimed at supporting individuals affected by dementia across the region.  

 

Dementia Action Week takes place between the 13-19th May, aiming to raise awareness and encourage collective action in support of those living with dementia. Age Concern Hampshire will be celebrating the week with cook-along recipes created by the charity’s esteemed patron chef, Clodagh McKenna. This special event will take place at Age Concern Hampshire’s Care and Wellbeing centres and will be prepared by their dedicated cooks throughout the week.  
 

Age Concern Hampshire

Charity Patron, Clodagh Mckenna said “I am so honoured to be the Patron of Age Concern Hampshire and help to raise awareness for the charity and the essential dementia support they provide. What we eat has a huge impact on our brain function, a diet of vegetables, fruit, pulses, oily fish (such as salmon) can help lower the risks and slow down the development. During Dementia Action Week, we will be sharing healthy recipes that are focused on these ingredients.” 

 

With proper nutrition playing a crucial role in maintaining overall health and wellbeing, the event will include meals rich in essential nutrients, including Vitamins B6, B12 and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, which are known to support brain health. Adequate nutrition can help support cognitive function and may even slow down the progression of cognitive decline.  

 

Recognising the importance of supporting cognitive development in dementia clients, Age Concern Hampshire will also be offering a range of activities throughout the week. These activities have been specifically tailored to cater to the unique needs of individuals living with dementia, with a primary focus on nurturing cognitive abilities. 

 

Helen Callen, CEO at Age Concern Hampshire said “We are thrilled to collaborate with Clodagh for Dementia Action Week. We’re committed to providing essential support for those affected by dementia and to raise awareness, supporting older people navigating cognitive challenges.” 

 

Age Concern Hampshire has Care and Wellbeing Centres in Dibden/Hythe, New Milton, Locks Heath and Yateley, offering a wide range of daily activities such as mobility support, art and crafts and music therapy sessions. These activities can play a significant role in improving memory, cognition, daily functioning as well as enhancing social interactions between clients through bringing back good memories and feelings of comfort. For additional details or to book a taster day, please contact Age Concern Hampshire at 01962 868545.  

 

Founded in 1985, Age Concern Hampshire provide services to the older community of Hampshire. The charity currently deliver support at their Care & Wellbeing centres throughout the county, as well as Help at Home, Information via their Information Hub, Foot care clinics, Hospital to Home Services, Community Information Volunteer Services and a variety of other activities.  

 

For more information, visit: www.ageconcernhampshire.org.uk 

 

Age Concern Hampshire 

Centre Way 

Locks Heath 

Southampton 

SO31 6DX 

 

Tel: 01962 868545 

 

For media enquiries, please email Sarah Jacobs, Marketing Manager at Age Concern Hampshire: marketing@ageconcernhampshire.org.uk