The first ever regional dementia awareness conference in Bath & North East Somerset was held in Peasedown St John on Tuesday, May 21.

Organised by the Peasedown Community Trust, the conference featured keynote speakers, information stalls, networking, a tasty lunch and an opportunity to meet charity leaders and experts working in the field of dementia research and awareness.

The chairwoman of Bath & North East Somerset Council, Cllr Karen Walker, said: “We were thrilled to host this conference in Peasedown St John.

“Every three minutes, someone in the UK will develop dementia. With dementia on the rise, communities across the country are making a stand, and Peasedown St John is no different.

“Since 2019, more than 250 residents have attended one of the Peasedown Community Trust’s dementia awareness workshops. They have been instrumental in raising the profile of the work we’re doing in the village – which we were able to showcase at this first ever regional conference in our area.”

Keynote speakers included Cathy Wernham, a senior clinical research fellow from RICE (the Research Institute for Care for Older People) and Lisa Derrick, regional manager at the Methodist Homes Association.

A huge range of organisations were also present for delegates to meet, such as Care UK, B&NES Library Service, and the Alzheimer’s Society.

The conference was completely free for anyone to attend thanks to funding provided by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

Cllr Gavin Heathcote was able to allocate £500 from his Ward Councillors Empowerment Fund to cover the costs of the event.

He said: “One in four people will be affected by dementia in their lifetimes, especially those diagnosed with clinical anxiety in middle age, which is why it’s important to work with individuals and their families to try and make life much easier for those who have it.

“The team at the Peasedown Community Trust worked very hard to put this event together – so it was encouraging to see so many people there.”

For more information about Dementia Friendly Peasedown, email Peasedown Community Trust: [email protected].

If you missed the event in Peasedown and are interested in finding out more about dementia support, Age UK Bath and North East Somerset will be hosting a dementia talk on Thursday, June 27, from 10am until 1pm at the Somer Centre, Midsomer Norton.

For more information and to confirm your attendance, call Age UK B&NES on 01225 466135 or email: [email protected]