Working to become Dementia Friendly

We're pleased that Barnet has been recognised by the Alzheimer’s Society as a community that is committed to becoming 'dementia-friendly', which will help over 5,000 people living with dementia in the borough.

A ‘Dementia Friendly Community’ is a place that creates an environment where people living with dementia will be confident that they can contribute to community life.

Barnet had the sixth highest recorded prevalence of dementia of all the London boroughs and with an ageing population the council expects over 7,000 people to be living with it by 2040.

Our CEO Helen Newman is one of the co-chairs of the of the Dementia Friendly Barnet Partnership, a group of local organisations which strive to make Barnet a place where people living with dementia are understood, respected and supported.

The idea is that residents, our voluntary and community sector, local businesses, and the NHS work together to improve support across the borough.

‘Considering that dementia rates are set to rise steeply in line with our ageing population, it is vital that people with dementia are able live in their communities and carry on leading the lives they want to for as long as possible,’ says Helen. 

The stats

• 4,387 people over 65 years of age living with dementia (in 2020).
• 66% increase (7,282 people) is expected by 2040.
• 40% of people who are aged 75 and above live in the community on their own
• Barnet had the 6^th highest recorded prevalence of dementia of all the London boroughs.

What we want to do

The Dementia Friendly Barnet Partnership is formed of local organisations who are committed to take action. Consulting with people affected by dementia, the Partnership has developed a clear programme of action and has initially prioritised the following areas for actions:

• Art and culture venues and leisure centres
• Faith Communities
• Local high-street businesses

Many people with dementia continue to drive, socialise, work, go to cinema, theatre, practice their faith and enjoy shopping and daily interactions with local people. The Partnership is committed to support local organisations, businesses, faith groups, culture venues to work towards becoming dementia-friendly so that they share responsibility in helping people living with dementia to live independently and safely in Barnet.

How you can get involved

Become a Dementia Friend

We currently have over 10,000 Dementia Friends in the borough. Being a Dementia Friend is a great way to show support, raise awareness and increase understanding. It is very quick and easy to sign up - please click the link here to join.

Take the Understanding Dementia training

Barnet Public Health is providing a FREE one-hour ‘Dementia Foundation’ CPD certified course designed to give you a core understanding of dementia and its impact. This is a perfect course for organisations and businesses who need to create or improve their current policies around ensuring the best customer and staff experience in situations involving those living with dementia.

To view available courses and enrol via EventBrite please click here.

To find out more information please email training@dementiaclubuk.org.uk

Join the Dementia Friendly Barnet Partnership

If you wish to join the local partnership, please email Seher.Kayikci@barnet.gov.uk. You don’t have to be a member of an organisation. We welcome people affected by dementia, carers and anyone who want to make a difference!