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Dementia Awareness Week

Published on 30 April 2026 03:04 PM

Age UK Surrey calls for community action during Dementia Awareness Week - 18-24 May

In support of Dementia Awareness Week (18-24 May) Age UK Surrey would like to shine a spotlight on the growing impact of dementia and the importance of awareness, understanding, and early support.

Dementia affects hundreds of thousands of people across the UK, with numbers continuing to rise as the population ages. According to the OHE (Office of Health Economics): In 2040, over 1.2 million people in the UK will have dementia - this is an increase in prevalence of 30% from 2022. Additionally, the likelihood of developing dementia, becoming an informal carer or both in a lifetime is 55% - approximately 1 in every 2 people.

In Surrey alone, thousands of individuals are living with the condition, alongside families and carers who are often navigating significant emotional and practical challenges. Age UK Surrey’s dementia support services are continually expanding to fill this need:

  • Memory Lane our MCST sessions are available in 3 locations – Ash, Milford and Mytchett. MCST is a weekly programme for people living with mild to moderate dementia. Group members take part in meaningful and stimulating conversations and activities, proven to help maintain memory and mental functioning. The groups provide a friendly and supportive environment where people can build new connections.

  • Our Memory and Friendship Groups are now available in 4 locations in Surrey – Ash, Milford, Mytchett and Ripley. They offer a warm, welcoming, safe space and a chance to socialise for people with memory loss and their carers. The sessions are filled with activities, information sharing and visits from local services.

  • Age UK Surrey’s 10-3 Club is held at the Clockhouse in Milford, providing a warm and welcoming respite service for older people living with dementia. Guests can enjoy a varied day with the option to take part in a range of stimulating activities. A two-course lunch is included. Our caring team are available throughout the day to provide support. FIND OUT MORE.

  • Memory Lane at Home is our new service starting this May, bringing memory and dementia support to the comfort of your home. We focus on enhancing the well-being of individuals living with a dementia diagnosis or memory challenges, while simultaneously providing family carers with a reliable, much-needed break from their caring duties. FIND OUT MORE

This Dementia Awareness Week, apart from conducting our regular dementia support sessions, Age UK Surrey will also be hosting 3 events at the Clockhouse in Milford, aimed at encouraging open conversations, breaking down stigma and ensuring no one faces dementia alone. These include:

  • 10-3 Club Saturday Opening. Saturday 16 May, 10.00am - 3.00pm. This session includes a range of stimulating activities, a delicious two-course fish and chip lunch, and live music for everyone to enjoy. Spaces are limited, so booking is essential. BOOK HERE

  • Dementia Awareness Week Afternoon Tea. Thursday 21 May, 1.30pm – 4.30pm. Join us to learn more about dementia, explore the benefits of our MCST (Maintenance Cognitive Stimulation Therapy) programme, and take part in an open Q&A where you can ask any questions you may have. BOOK HERE.

  • The Big Knit Little Tea Party. Friday 22 May, 10.30am - 12.30pm. Come along and find out what The Big Knit is all about. Join us for a relaxed morning of knitting, nattering, and community as we launch this year’s Big Knit Little Tea Parties and support Dementia Awareness Week.  Book here by May 15th. BOOK HERE.

Carers, who are often the unsung heroes in dementia care, are a key focus of this year’s awareness week. Age UK Surrey is highlighting the need for greater support networks, respite opportunities, and accessible advice for those providing day-to-day care.

“Caring for someone with dementia can be incredibly rewarding, but also isolating and demanding,” said Catherine Hodgson, CEO of Age UK Surrey. “We want carers to know that help is available and that they are not alone.”

Residents are invited to get involved by attending events, volunteering, or simply taking time to learn more about dementia and how it affects people in their community. As Dementia Awareness Week continues, Age UK Surrey hopes the campaign will inspire lasting change, fostering a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone affected by dementia.