Dementia Initiatives

Billericay Talks

inspired by the PALZ (Professionals with Alzheimers) initiative that began in Australia where club member Patrick Rothon had met with PDG Cathy Roth of Geelong Central Rotary Club.  Cathy had set up a score of PALZ clubs across Australia to provide a forum where professional and high-performing sufferers could get mental stimulation and companionship from quality speakers.  Patrick has been a champion for similar clubs in the U.K.

Billericay Talks is being launched as an opportunity to provide older people with the intellectual and social stimulation that the workplace used to provide.  It is open to everyone, but is designed to be inclusive for people  living with dementia (and their supporting family members/friends).  Patrick was the first speaker at the session on May 8, and his subject was “A Century of Spice”.  The Rotary Club of Billericay is one of the main supporters of this initiative.
Maureen Lee said “We are grateful to the Rotary Club of Billericay and the Town Council for their support. Members of the public are encouraged to come along and support this new group, which  we hope will really add something new and worthwhile  for older people in and around Billericay”.
First Friday morning of the month. 10.30 – 12.00 Free entry Refreshments provided.
Interesting speakers on a range of subjects.
Opportunity to meet and talk with others in a similar situation.
Contact: Billericay@Uniteinkindne26ss.co.uk

Billericay Community Dance

This is another initiative, also at the Chantry Centre.  These relaxed afternoon tea dance sessions are designed for all ages and skill levels, including those with dementia and their carers, these sessions feature music, movement, and social time with refreshments
First Wednesday afternoon of the month, 2-4 pm £5 entry, carers free of charge – an inclusive event  for adults with SEN.
Contact either Anna - Anna@bennettsfunerals.co.uk or Jo  - Jocurd@bluebirdcare.co.uk
The first sessions in March and April were very popular, with furher sessions on May 6, June 3,  August 5, Sept. 2, October 7,  Nov. 4 and Dec. 2. 

Dementia Action Week (May 18-24, 2026)

This is an opportunity to create awareness of the signs and symptoms of dementia, as well as sending a reminder of the care and support available.  Dementia can impact everyone in different ways, however there are common symptoms that could indicate the early stages such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, confusion regarding time and place, changes in mood, difficulty and confusion doing daily tasks.

A dementia diagnosis is vital to ensure people get the care and treatment they require – many people live their lives undiagnosed, which can create unnecessary barriers in their everyday lives. The sooner you visit a GP, the sooner they can check in case the symptoms match with a different condition.

Lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of getting dementia, such as regular physical activities, a well-balanced diet, and regular mental stimulation.

Maureen Lee asks us to “turn the High Street blue again!  And put forget-me-not pictures in our windows at home to show support for people in our community affected by dementia.  Children in the schools will be producing posters for the High Street and around the town.  Let’s all try to do our bit to raise awareness this year.”

There was an information meeting – where many services and clubs and groups for people affected by dementia – will be represented – on Friday May 22 at the Chantry Centre at 10.30 - 1.00.   Everybody is welcome to go along if they are worried about someone in their family, or a friend, or just to catch up with what is happening and how they could, perhaps, become involved.