Cumberland Council backs Dementia Action Week

Cumberland Council is supporting West Cumbria Dementia Action Alliance (DAA) to shine a light on dementia and support those living with it.

The DAA, a passionate network of organisations and community members, is dedicated to helping people with dementia and their carers thrive in our communities.

The Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Action Week runs from Monday 19 to Friday 23 May 2025. This crucial campaign drives home the importance of early diagnosis, showcases activities for people living with dementia, and inspires everyone to build more dementia-friendly communities.

Did you know someone in the UK develops dementia every three minutes? And it’s not just older adults—people in their 30s, 40s, and 50s can be affected too.

Too many face this condition feeling isolated and alone. That’s why Cumberland Council is stepping up to foster inclusive, supportive communities that make a real difference.

Dementia affects memory, problem-solving, language, and behaviour—sometimes all at once. With over 100 types of dementia, symptoms often start small but worsen over time. Early recognition is key, and we urge everyone to check out the Alzheimer’s Society’s symptoms checker on their website.

The Padlet page Dementia Friendly Communities – West Cumbria provides a wealth of resources, ideas, and initiatives for creating dementia-friendly communities in West Cumbria, offering invaluable support to individuals and organisations alike.

Colin Cox, Cumberland Council’s Director of Public Health, Customer and Community Wellbeing, said: “We are proud to support Dementia Action Week as part of our commitment to fostering a healthier, more inclusive Cumberland. Dementia impacts so many in our community, and together, we can ensure no one faces this journey alone.

“Caring for your heart also cares for your mind. Taking steps like staying active and giving up smoking can play a big role in lowering the risk of dementia. 

“From raising awareness and encouraging early diagnosis to creating dementia-friendly spaces, Cumberland Council is dedicated to supporting our community in making positive choices and building a future where everyone feels valued and supported.”

Cumberland Councillor and Portfolio Holder for Public Health, Cllr Justin McDermott said: “Supporting Dementia Action Week reflects our ongoing commitment to a more compassionate and inclusive Cumberland.”

“Whether it’s promoting early diagnosis, raising awareness, or developing dementia-friendly initiatives, Cumberland Council is dedicated to making a lasting difference in the lives of those affected.”

Chair of Cumberland Council, Cllr Andy Semple, said: “I’ve chosen the Alzheimer’s Society as my nominated charity as it is a cause close to my heart. Having seen first hand the impact it can have on an individual and wider family, it’s important to support charities that help those in need. It is a cruel illness and the work the Alzheimer’s Society does should be commended.

“I have been a long-time supporter and have raised funding for them in 2005 when I took part in the Great North Run.”