Dementia info evening set for West Cork
A free event designed to help build a dementia inclusive community will take place in county Cork next month.
The public information evening will be held from 6-8.30pm on 10 March at Fernhill House Hotel, Clonakilty.
The evening is hosted by the West Cork Dementia Inclusive Project in partnership with the HSE’s Dementia: Understand Together campaign.
Residents, businesses, community groups, and clubs across Clonakilty are all invited to attend the event where they will learn about the practical steps they can take to help build a dementia inclusive community.
The evening will be led by Sinead Crowley, newly appointed dementia inclusive project worker for West Cork.
Ms Crowley said: “This event brings the Clonakilty community together to learn more about dementia and the small, meaningful steps we can all take to support our friends, neighbours, and customers who may be living with the condition. With greater understanding and awareness, we can help people with dementia feel connected and supported in their community.”
Attendees will hear from dementia experts and local service providers, who will speak about dementia, how it can affect people, and the supports available in the West Cork area.
Representatives from community organisations will also be there to share information, advice, and practical ways in which the community can work together to create a more inclusive environment for people living with dementia.
Dr Tim Dukelow, a consultant geriatrician with HSE South West, said: “Increased awareness and community support can significantly improve quality of life for people living with dementia.
“This highly informative evening will increase awareness, improve knowledge, and highlight the many supports available locally.”
Dr Emer Shanley, Community Health Network (CHN) Manager for West Cork, said: “Creating a dementia inclusive community is something we can only achieve by working together, and events like this play an important role in building that shared understanding.
“When people know more about dementia and feel confident in how to support someone living with it, it strengthens the fabric of our community.
“I’m delighted to see such strong collaboration across West Cork, and I encourage residents, businesses, and community groups to get involved and learn how small actions can make a big difference,” added Dr Shanley.