On Monday, 12th February, The Applied Research Collaboration North West Coast (ARC NWC) and the University of Liverpool, Liverpool Dementia & Ageing Research Forum, led by ARC NWC Senior Research Fellow Dr Clarissa Giebel, hosted their latest networking meeting at the prestigious Waterhouse Building, with over 100 people registered to attend.

Since its launch in 2019, the Forum has brought together health and social care professionals, researchers, Charities, commissioners, and individuals with lived and caring experience of dementia to collaborate on research, share insights, and explore practical solutions to enhance dementia care and ageing research.

The meeting featured insights from key figures in the field, beginning with Sarah Kirkland from the Greater Manchester NHS Integrated Care Board and Dementia United. Sarah outlined current dementia strategies and the future plans set to tackle the growing challenges of dementia care. “It’s crucial that we continue to evolve our strategies to meet the growing challenges of dementia care,” Sarah said. “This session explored how we can build on our existing frameworks and develop future plans that are both innovative and sustainable.”

Dr Rhys Davies from the Walton Centre updated attendees about a forthcoming regional group of for patients with Rare Dementia to provide support, aimed at extending support to individuals affected by rare forms of dementia. “By expanding access to the Rare Dementia Support service, we aim to provide tailored, expert care that can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals and families living with rare forms of dementia,” Dr Davies explained. “The new resource should help with current unmet need for people with dementia.”

Sue Egersdorff, co- founder of Ready Generations, discussed the role of intergenerational care, focusing on how such initiatives can strengthen communities and provide valuable support to individuals across generations. “Intergenerational care is about more than just improving the lives of older adults – it’s about creating stronger, more resilient communities where people of all ages can share experiences and care for one another,” Sue remarked. “I was excited to discuss how these practices are changing the landscape of dementia care.”

Attendees also had the opportunity to hear general updates and explore new opportunities within the sector, encouraging collaboration and fostering further progress in dementia care.

Dr Clarissa Giebel, a leading researcher in dementia care and inequalities, emphasised the significance of the event, “By bringing together experts from different disciplines, alongside practitioners and those with lived experience, we open the door to real, effective change. The diversity of voices ensures that our efforts to support those with dementia and the people who care for them can truly make a difference.”

She continued, “This forum isn’t just a place to exchange ideas. It’s a vital hub where we come together to collaborate, share insights, and shape the future of research. The solutions we develop are grounded in the lived experiences of those directly affected, ensuring that the work we do has a lasting impact.”

The meeting closed with an announcement of the next Forum date. For more details on past and upcoming events, visit the Liverpool Dementia & Ageing Research Forum website.