Tech Hub: a live workshop exploring technology for people living with dementia
Early Bird Sessions
18 November, 2026 8:45 – 9:30 amTechnology Hub
Henry Collingham is a Senior Research Fellow at Northumbria University and Innovation Lead for the TEDI (Technology Empowered Dementia Independence) Network Plus, where he leads delivery of community Tech Hubs across Newcastle and North Tyneside. His work focuses on accessible, design-led technology with and for people living with dementia.
Arlene is a Professor of Psychology at Northumbria University. With more than 20 years of research experience, she has dedicated her career to co-producing technology that helps people live and age well – particularly those living with dementia. Her work challenges assumptions about what people with dementia can and can’t do with technology, and she has led numerous national and international projects to prove it. Arlene has published widely, with over 240 peer-reviewed papers and a book on everyday technology in dementia care. She leads TEDI Network Plus and brings together the people, ideas, and partnerships needed to make it happen.
Dr Henry Collingham
Senior Research Fellow in Design
Northumbria University — TEDI (Technology Empowered Dementia Independence) Network Plus
Prof Arlene Astell
Proffessor of Psycholoy
Northumbria University — TEDI (Technology Empowered Dementia Independence) Network Plus
Arlene is a Professor of Psychology at Northumbria University. With more than 20 years of research experience, she has dedicated her career to co-producing technology that helps people live and age well – particularly those living with dementia. Her work challenges assumptions about what people with dementia can and can’t do with technology, and she has led numerous national and international projects to prove it. Arlene has published widely, with over 240 peer-reviewed papers and a book on everyday technology in dementia care. She leads TEDI Network Plus and brings together the people, ideas, and partnerships needed to make it happen.
Summary
Tech Hubs are relaxed, friendly community sessions where people living with dementia and those who care for them explore technology that could genuinely help in everyday life. Technology Empowered Dementia Independence (TEDI) Network Plus has been delivering Tech Hubs since April 2026 and offers this workshop to UKDC as a hands-on way to share our methods and learning.
Rather than describe the model, this workshop will be a Tech Hub: we will run an actual session in the room, just as we do with community groups. Gathered around a chosen technology, participants will try it out, share what does and doesn’t work for them, ask questions, and take part in the open, judgement-free conversation that sits at the heart of every Hub. Having delivered Hubs across Newcastle and North Tyneside, with charities and care providers – we will bring that experience into the room. We will close with a short wrap-up signposting resources for anyone who would like to run Tech Hubs of their own.