28th August 2025 • The HERALD • Page 47 v SEND ALL YOUR NEWS TO THE HERALD v WE CARE, YOU CARE Romsey’s Demfest Returns – With Special Guest Susan Hampshire from Romsey Dementia Action Group (ROMDAG) Romsey’s much-loved Demfest returns on Sunday 31st August, taking place from 11am to 4pm at the beautiful Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Organised by the Romsey Dementia Action Group (ROMDAG), this free community festival celebrates Romsey’s ongoing commitment to being a dementia-friendly town - and this year’s event is set to be more memorable than ever. We are thrilled to welcome Susan Hampshire, the acclaimed English actress and advocate for dementia awareness. Susan will be joining attendees throughout the day, helping to shine a light on the importance of community support and understanding for those a ected by dementia. Demfest brings together families, carers, health professionals and the wider public for a day that is both upli ing and informative. We welcome back the amazing team at Outreach Radio. is year’s entertainment will include performances from local favourites such as the Romsey Ukulele Group, e Memory Choir, and Cinnamon Jazz, just to name a few. Visitors can also enjoy interactive activities, demonstrations, and many information stands o ering practical support, resources, and guidance. We are also delighted to share that ROMDAG is now a registered charity - a milestone that re ects our long-term commitment to supporting people a ected by dementia in Romsey and surrounding areas. We extend our sincere thanks to Clare Goddard and the team at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens for generously hosting Demfest and supporting this special community event. “Our goal is to create a day that is welcoming, supportive and full of joy,” said ROMDAG Committee Chair Janet Pratly “Demfest is about bringing people together - whether they are living with dementia, supporting someone who is, or simply part of our caring community. We want families to know they are not alone, and that ROMDAG is here to help.” Admission is free, and all are welcome. Whether you’re seeking information, hoping to connect with others, or just looking for a great day out, Demfest 2025 has something for everyone. For more information, visit www.romdag.co.uk or follow us on Facebook @romdag. Demfest Dementia is a progressive disease and receiving a diagnosis can be overwhelming. at’s why Memoryworks Hampshire CIC was founded - to support people in the early stages of dementia through Cognitive Stimulation erapy (CST). CST is an evidence-based approach that uses structured group activities and discussions to help improve thinking, memory, and communication. At Memoryworks, sessions are designed to be engaging, meaningful, and fun. “It’s about getting people talking, enjoying themselves, and building confidence,” says founder Elena. e programme encourages participants to form new ideas and associations, stimulating memory and identity through sensory triggers such as sounds, images, and objects. It also supports the creation of new neural pathways - reinforcing the idea of “use it or lose it.” Memoryworks is deeply rooted in the community, with an experienced team committed to helping people thrive a er diagnosis. e service also o ers families the chance to connect with others and share the challenges that dementia can bring. Across the UK, carers provide an estimated £1.1 billion worth of unpaid care to nearly a million people living with dementia. Memoryworks recognises their vital role and creates space for their voices too. If you or someone you know could bene t from CST, get in touch. Memoryworks are starting a new group at the Hythe and Dibden Community Centre from 2nd October. All places are subject to an assessment. Contact Elena on: 07590 503210, email: hello@memoryworks. org.uk, or visit: www.memoryworks.org.uk Memoryworks Hampshire CIC: How to Live Well with Dementia
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