From Gateshead to Newcastle: setting up and sustaining community dementia networks — facilitation, challenges and lessons
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Parallel 4
18 November, 2026 12:00 – 1:10 pmBeyond the Diagnosis – Building Networks, Connection and Inclusive Support
Kathleen has worked for Search since 2018, starting as a Community Connector with Chain Reaction. Kathleen is a Dementia and Digital Engagement Worker, so she is facilitating Dementia Activities, “Techy Teas”, and supporting people to engage in these activities. When she is not at work, Kathleen loves to walk her dog.
An exemplary communicator, first and foremost, with 22 years of experience working in the community with people of all ages, currently for Calderdale Homecare, seconded into Edberts House.With extensive experience in training facilitation, group and 1-1 work as well as co-ordination of community events and activities, including the development of Gateshead Dementia Network and supporting and managing staff and volunteers. Facilitating presentations, creating detailed reports, and compiling evaluations.
Kathleen Dickinson
Activities Team Leader, Dementia and Digital Engagement Worker
Search, Newcastle
Helen Bell
Community Participation and Accessibility Lead
Calderdale Homecare (seconded into Edberts House)
An exemplary communicator, first and foremost, with 22 years of experience working in the community with people of all ages, currently for Calderdale Homecare, seconded into Edberts House.With extensive experience in training facilitation, group and 1-1 work as well as co-ordination of community events and activities, including the development of Gateshead Dementia Network and supporting and managing staff and volunteers. Facilitating presentations, creating detailed reports, and compiling evaluations.
Summary
Local dementia networks connect the people and organisations supporting those living with dementia, but they are easier to start than to sustain. Drawing on two North East networks at different stages — the well-established Gateshead Dementia Network and the newer Dementia Network Newcastle — this session shares how they were built, what makes them work, and the challenges of keeping them going. Attendees will leave with a practical roadmap for setting up a local network in their area.