The event, supported by staff and students from the school and Kent Dementia Action Alliance partner organisations, saw more than 60 exhibitors from the public, private, and voluntary sectors gather to share vital resources and insights into dementia support. The day began with informative talks, culminating in a celebration of the individuals and groups who have made a remarkable difference in the lives of people living with dementia.
The annual Dementia Friendly Kent Awards, which have been running since 2014, recognise the tireless work being done to create more inclusive communities for people affected by dementia. What makes these awards particularly special is that they are judged by people with lived experience of dementia and their carers, making them a genuine reflection of grassroots impact.
This year’s awards were presented by Dan Watkins, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Public Health at Kent County Council, alongside Dr Afifa Qazi, Executive Medical Director and Consultant Psychiatrist, and Dr Adrian Richardson, Director of Partnerships and Transformation at Kent & Medway Mental Health NHS Trust (KMPT).
Celebrating Local Heroes: The 2024 Award Highlights
The Most Inspiring Dementia Care Provider Award, sponsored by No Place Like Home, was presented to the Dementia Crisis Support Service Team in Medway. This dedicated team has provided life-changing support to families facing the complexities of dementia, assisting with everything from arranging respite care to hospital visits and bereavement support. Their manager, Jody Howie, expressed immense pride in the team’s achievement:
“I am very proud of the Dementia Crisis team for winning their award. As their manager, I’m always telling them what a great job they do, but for them to win the award makes them realise it’s not just me saying it— they are an amazing team and truly make a difference in the lives of patients and the families they work with.”
Jody Howie, an Admiral Nurse, was further recognised with the Outstanding Contribution to Dementia Award, sponsored by Home Instead. Jody has been instrumental in providing both medical and emotional support to patients and their families. One family spoke highly of her compassion and guidance throughout a decade-long journey with a rare form of dementia. On receiving the award, Jody said:
“I don’t ask for recognition for what I do—I see it as my job, and I love my job. I was absolutely shocked to have been nominated, but I feel privileged. It makes me feel that what I do as an Admiral Nurse is valued, and through all the stress, I know I am making a difference to my patients.”
The Dementia Friendly Organisation Award, sponsored by Kyndi, was awarded to The Lighthouse Dementia Group on the Isle of Sheppey. This grassroots group, founded and run entirely by former carers, has been doubling in size since the start of 2024, offering cognitive support, activities, and outings to combat isolation. Founder Janet Beake noted the significance of the award:
“As a small group run entirely by former carers for carers, winning this award is recognition that we are truly supporting those living with dementia and their carers. Many carers have said how alone they felt before joining the group. Based on the Isle of Sheppey, where resources are limited, The Lighthouse Group is playing a crucial role in combating isolation and loneliness.”
The Community and Partnership Project Award, sponsored by The Good Care Group, went to The Young Dementia Initiative for their “Alive & Kicking” music sessions. These sessions, designed for individuals with Young Onset Dementia, provide crucial social interaction and foster community engagement. Sally Barclay from the initiative said:
“It is absolutely wonderful to have received an award from the Dementia Friendly Kent Awards. I am delighted that people living with dementia have valued what we are doing—it means so much and inspires us to do more for our local community. We couldn’t do this without the support of other individuals and organisations.”
Finally, the Most Dementia Friendly Community Award, sponsored by KMPT, was given to the Hythe Dementia Forum for their extensive work in raising awareness and creating support systems across Hythe and Folkestone. The Forum’s events have reached more than 100 people, helping to build a sense of community and support for both those living with dementia and their carers. Susan Foster from the Forum highlighted the importance of the award:
“Everyone who is part of the Hythe Town Council Dementia Awareness Forum is a volunteer, and it’s wonderful that so many people are being recognised for their valuable contributions. This award will help raise further awareness of dementia, which is what we are all about. By providing activities for people living with dementia, we’ve been able to create lasting friendships, which have been invaluable not only for those with dementia but also for carers, offering them a safe space to share both tears and joy.”
This year’s awards continue to shine a light on the remarkable people and organisations working to improve the lives of those affected by dementia across Kent. Through their efforts, more communities are becoming supportive environments where people with dementia can live well and thrive.
For more information about the Dementia Friendly Kent Awards and the incredible work being done in the community, please visit the Kent Dementia Action Alliance website.
*image courtesy of Shilling Snaps Photography
