Dementia Conversations: Co-creating a supportive, dementia aware university community
Parallel 5
18 November, 2026 2:10 – 3:20 pmMini Presentations: Group 2
Nicola Jacobson-Wright
Dementia Practice Development Coach
University of Worcester
Dr Chris Russell
Senior Lecturer
University of Worcester
Summary
The Association for Dementia Studies (ADS) at the University of Worcester is a leading centre for dementia research, education, and evidence based practice, with global influence.
The ADS team have been looking at how to influence and impact closer to home, within the wider university community. We know that one in two of us will be affected by dementia in our lifetime, either developing dementia ourselves, or being an unpaid carer for someone. With this understanding, we recognise that many university staff members will be supporting relatives or friends living with dementia, or may be experiencing cognitive changes themselves; and students are increasingly likely to encounter dementia in their personal lives.
Together with this, ADS contributes dementia related teaching to several health and wellbeing courses at the university, however there is currently no consistent approach to ensuring that all health and social care students develop a foundational understanding of dementia.
To address these gaps, ADS initiated the development of a free short online course designed for all students and staff, with the aim of fostering a dementia aware and supportive university community. Central to this initiative was a commitment to co creation, ensuring that the course reflects the needs, experiences, and priorities of the university population and people with lived experience.
Alongside the course, ADS is also starting the initiative, “Dementia Conversations”, a monthly open online drop-in session for university colleagues who would like to share, ask questions or gain support around their experiences with dementia.
An initial survey gathered views from students and staff, identifying key topics for inclusion and confirming strong support for the course. Respondents were also invited to join a Steering Group, resulting in a diverse membership of students, staff, ADS colleagues, and people with lived experience of dementia. This group played a crucial role in shaping course content, advising on accessibility, tone, and relevance, and suggesting interactive elements to enhance engagement.
Through iterative collaboration with the Steering Group, ADS refined the course structure and materials, incorporating personal insights and practical guidance. The resulting online course will be freely available to the entire university community, helping individuals feel more confident in supporting people affected by dementia in both personal and professional contexts. It also aims to provide reassurance and recognition for anyone experiencing symptoms and those in unpaid caring roles, contributing to a more understanding and inclusive campus environment.