Dementia Services Showcase Coming to Ashford on 18th May

Age UK Hythe, Lyminge & Ashford is inviting members of the public, carers, families, professionals, and local organisations to attend the Dementia Services Showcase Ashford on Monday 18th May at the Ashford Community Support Hub, Farrow Court, Stanhope Road, Ashford, TN23 5RF.

Taking place from 10am to 3pm as part of Dementia Action Awareness Week, this free community event will bring together more than 30 organisations and support providers dedicated to helping people affected by dementia across Kent.

The showcase has been designed to help individuals and families discover the wide range of dementia support services available locally, while also creating an opportunity to meet professionals, ask questions, and access practical advice and guidance in a welcoming and supportive environment.

Attendees will have the chance to speak directly with organisations including Age UK, Alzheimer’s Society, Kent Association for the Blind, NHS Talking Therapies, Bright Shadow, Carers Support, Kent Road Safety and many other local support services. With over 30 stalls now confirmed, visitors will be able to explore a wide variety of resources and information all under one roof.

Throughout the day, visitors can also take part in a series of free interactive sessions and activities designed to support wellbeing, confidence, memory, and social connection.

One of the key features of the event is the SMMSE Memory Check drop-in session running from 9:30am to 3pm. No appointment is required, and visitors can simply drop in for a friendly one-to-one memory check using a simple pen-and-paper activity, with guidance provided on possible next steps if needed.

Additional sessions during the day include a Friends Session hosted by Niki Young, offering a relaxed and welcoming environment where attendees can socialise and enjoy gentle activities, as well as a Staying Connected session focused on reducing isolation and helping people remain connected within their communities.

Visitors can also experience an introduction to Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (MCST), led by Lauren Povey, featuring engaging activities and group discussions designed to support memory and thinking skills.

Later in the afternoon, Kent Road Safety will host a Mature Drivers Seminar, offering practical guidance and reassurance for older drivers looking to remain safe, confident, and informed on the road.

The event is completely free to attend and open to everyone, whether you are personally affected by dementia, supporting a loved one, working in health or social care, or simply interested in learning more about dementia support within the local community.

For further information about the Dementia Services Showcase Ashford, please contact Age UK Hythe, Lyminge & Ashford on 01303 269602.

We look forward to welcoming the community for an informative, supportive, and engaging day dedicated to raising awareness and improving access to dementia support services across Ashford and the surrounding areas.