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Support groups for people with dementia in the UK
Yes, there are many support groups for people living with dementia across the UK. These groups can offer a safe, friendly space to talk, share experiences, and reduce feelings of isolation. Some are designed specifically for people with dementia, while others also welcome family members and carers.
Support groups may be run by charities, local councils, NHS services, or community organisations. They can meet in person, over the phone, or online, which makes them easier to access if travel is difficult. The right group can help people stay connected and feel more confident day to day.
What support groups can offer
Support groups often provide practical advice as well as emotional support. People may talk about coping with memory loss, planning daily routines, or finding ways to stay independent for longer. Hearing from others in a similar situation can make challenges feel more manageable.
Some groups include activities such as music, reminiscence, crafts, gentle exercise, or tea and conversation. These sessions can help people stay active and engaged. They can also give carers a break while the person with dementia enjoys social contact in a supportive setting.
Where to find a group
One of the best-known sources is the Alzheimer’s Society, which runs local groups and services in many areas of the UK. Dementia UK, Age UK, and local memory clinics may also be able to point people towards nearby support. Your GP or practice nurse can often suggest services in your area too.
Many councils and NHS trusts have directories of local dementia support, including day centres and peer groups. Libraries, community centres, and churches sometimes host informal meetings as well. If you are looking online, search for your town or county plus “dementia support group”.
Online and phone support
If leaving home is difficult, online and telephone support groups can be a good option. These are especially helpful for people in rural areas, those with mobility problems, or anyone who prefers to join from home. Many organisations now offer video groups or helplines for regular contact and advice.
Some online groups are for people with dementia, while others are for carers only. It is worth checking the format before joining, so you know what to expect. A short, structured session may feel easier than a large open meeting at first.
Finding the right fit
Different groups suit different people, so it may take a little time to find the right one. Some are small and relaxed, while others are more activity-based. It is fine to try a group once and decide whether it feels comfortable.
If you are caring for someone with dementia, ask them what kind of support they would prefer. A good group should feel welcoming, respectful, and easy to join. The most important thing is finding support that helps the person feel understood and less alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dementia support groups UK are local or online groups that offer information, peer support, and practical help for people living with dementia, their families, and carers.
Dementia support groups UK are usually open to people with dementia, family members, friends, and unpaid carers, although some groups are designed for specific audiences.
You can find dementia support groups UK near you through the NHS, Alzheimer’s Society, Age UK, local councils, GP surgeries, and community centres.
Many dementia support groups UK are free, but some may ask for a small donation or charge for refreshments, room hire, or specialist activities.
Dementia support groups UK meetings often include sharing experiences, practical advice, guest speakers, activities, and time to talk with others in a similar situation.
Yes, many dementia support groups UK are suitable for people in the early stages of dementia and can help them stay socially connected and informed.
Yes, dementia support groups UK often provide valuable support for carers and family members by offering emotional support, coping tips, and local resource information.
Yes, many dementia support groups UK now offer online meetings by video or phone, which can be helpful for people who have mobility, transport, or scheduling difficulties.
Dementia support groups UK may meet weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, depending on the organisation and the needs of the group members.
Yes, dementia support groups UK can reduce loneliness and isolation by creating a welcoming space to connect with people who understand the challenges of dementia.
Dementia support groups UK often provide peer support, signposting to services, wellbeing activities, education sessions, and guidance for carers.
To choose the right dementia support groups UK, consider location, meeting format, accessibility, group size, focus, and whether the group supports the person with dementia, the carer, or both.
Many dementia support groups UK try to be accessible with step-free access, nearby parking, hearing support, and suitable toilet facilities, but it is best to check in advance.
Yes, some dementia support groups UK offer culturally appropriate support, multilingual resources, or community-specific groups to better meet different needs.
Some dementia support groups UK can signpost people to advice about benefits, lasting power of attorney, care planning, and other legal or financial matters.
Yes, dementia support groups UK can be very helpful after a diagnosis by offering reassurance, information, emotional support, and a chance to ask questions.
Most dementia support groups UK encourage confidentiality and respectful sharing, but the exact privacy rules can vary by organisation, so it is worth checking their policy.
You can usually join dementia support groups UK by contacting the organiser, registering online, phoning a local support service, or turning up at an advertised meeting.
For dementia support groups UK meetings, you may want to bring any notes or questions, medication if needed, water, and contact details for the organiser in case plans change.
Dementia support groups UK can improve quality of life by increasing confidence, reducing stress, building friendships, and helping people access practical support and advice.
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