Dementia Action Week Highlights Support Available Across Ards and North Down

Released: Tuesday 12 May 2026

Dementia Action Week: Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, alongside Lynsey McLaughlin - Owner of LM Studios, Ballywalter.

Dementia Action Week will take place from 18 - 24 May, bringing together communities, organisations and individuals across Ards and North Down to raise awareness of dementia and the support available locally.

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Dementia Action Week is an annual awareness campaign that encourages people and organisations to take action to improve the lives of those affected by dementia. As part of this year's programme, the local Dementia Friendly Partnership will be highlighting practical support for people living with dementia and their carers throughout the Borough.

During the week, information will be shared through hairdressers and beauty salons across the peninsula, helping to reach people in familiar, everyday settings. In addition, an information stand will be available at Lesley Bloomfield Shopping Centre on Thursday 21 May, from 10am to 4pm, where members of the public can find out more about dementia services and speak to those involved in local support initiatives.

Residents are also encouraged to pick up a copy of the Worried About Your Memory? booklet, developed by the Dementia Friendly Partnership. The booklet provides guidance on memory concerns, diagnosis and available services, and is available from all local libraries and selected council buildings.

The Dementia Safeguarding Scheme continues to be available for people living with dementia across the borough. The scheme provides reassurance and practical help to support individuals to remain safe and independent in their communities. Further information can be found through the Dementia Friendly - Ards and North Down Borough Council webpage.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, said:

"Dementia Action Week is an important opportunity to highlight the support available within our communities and to encourage greater understanding of dementia. By working together through local partnerships, businesses and community spaces, we can help ensure that people living with dementia and their carers feel supported, valued and included across the Borough."

Dementia Action Week reflects Ards and North Down's ongoing commitment to raising awareness, reducing stigma and providing practical support for people living with dementia and their carers, helping to create a more inclusive and dementia-friendly community for everyone.

Photo caption: Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, alongside Lynsey McLaughlin - Owner of LM Studios, Ballywalter.