The Awards for the People that Matter

For well over a decade, Dementia Community has proudly celebrated the people, projects, and partnerships that make a real difference in the lives of those living with dementia. The UK Dementia Awards 2026 continue this tradition—recognising excellence, compassion, and innovation across care, community, and creativity.

Nominations and Judging

The awards are judged by a panel of dementia experts, including people with lived experience, ensuring that every nomination is seen, valued, and understood.
Whether nominating a colleague, a team, a service, or someone whose quiet dedication deserves the spotlight, this is the chance to say: you matter, and your work matters too.

Awards Timeline

  • Friday 27 February 2026, 5pm: Nominations Close.
  • 1-14 March 2026: Shortlisting
  • 15-26 March 2026: Interviews with shortlisted nominees
  • 27 March 2026: Shortlisted nominees are notified
  • 30 April 2026: Gala Awards Lunch and Ceremony
Gala Details

General Judging Criteria

  • Impact: Tangible difference made to people affected by dementia.
  • Innovation or Distinctiveness: Fresh thinking, creative approaches, or unique contributions.
  • Person-Centred Approach: Respect, empathy, and individualised support.
  • Evidence of Effectiveness: Testimonials, outcomes, or measurable results.
  • Inclusivity and Accessibility: Reaching diverse communities and promoting equity.
  • Collaboration and Leadership: Working with others or leading change in a positive way

The Awards

Select an award below to see more information about the award and specific judging criteria: you will find a nomination form, which will ask you for your details and your nominee’s, a description of why you believe they should be considered, and the opportunity to upload supporting information.

The Awards

Dementia Care Team Award

Recognising teams working in a variety of settings, delivering compassionate, person-centred care

End of Life Care Award

Honouring those who provide sensitive, respectful, and holistic care at the end of life, supporting individuals and families with empathy and grace.

Leadership Award

Valuing leaders who inspire excellence, drive positive change, and uplift those around them in the pursuit of better dementia care.

Independent Small Provider Award

Celebrating small-scale care and community organisations delivering personalised, values-led support.

Technology and AI in Dementia Award

Celebrating the use of digital tools, assistive technology and AI to enhance independence, safety, and quality of life.

Environmental Design Award

Recognising the value of spaces that support wellbeing through thoughtful, dementia-friendly design.

Dementia Research Award

Recognising a researcher or research team whose work has advanced our understanding of dementia, improved care practices, and brought hope for future treatments.

Home-Care Service Award

Championing home-care providers who deliver high-quality, respectful, and relationship-based care in people’s own homes.

Respite and Carer Support Award

Valuing organisations and people who offer respite and support for unpaid carers.

EDI in Practice: Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award

Recognising inclusive practices that reflect the diversity of our communities and ensures equitable access to support.

Young Onset Dementia Award

Celebrating tailored support, advocacy, or innovation for people living with dementia.

Intergenerational Award

Celebrating initiatives that bring generations together, fostering understanding, joy, and mutual support across age groups.

Creative Arts and Culture in Dementia Award

Honouring arts, heritage, and cultural projects that spark memory, creativity, and connection.

Promoting Health and Wellbeing Award

Championing initiatives that support physical and emotional wellbeing through nature, movement and mindfulness.

People’s Choice Award

Honouring individuals who are making a difference for people living with dementia and whose impact is deeply felt and appreciated.