A series of local events is launching in Cheltenham this month to raise awareness about dementia, aiming to support residents in an area where the population is increasingly older. The Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust is leading the initiative under the theme Stay Social, Stay Well, with activities beginning on 16 May 2026.
The programme kicks off as staff from the health trust attend Cheltenham Pride, held at Imperial Gardens on 16 May. This local effort serves as an introduction to the national Dementia Action Week, which runs from 18 May to 24 May 2026 and is organised by the Alzheimer’s Society. According to the national charity, raising awareness remains vital, as one in three people living with dementia in the UK do not currently have a diagnosis.
These awareness efforts are particularly relevant in Cheltenham, where the number of retired residents has grown to 22.5 per cent of the population. The local health trust provides ongoing support for those concerned about their memory through the Managing Memory Together service, which offers specialist assessments and treatment across the county.
Throughout the week, community activities will include Sing to Remember sessions, with a local event scheduled at St Nicholas Church in Cheltenham. Additionally, members of the public can attend dementia awareness talks, including sessions at Dursley Library on 20 May and Hucclecote Library on 21 May, both presented by Dr Jennifer Bute.
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