Petersfield Hosts East Hampshire Dementia Festival on October 31

The East Hampshire Dementia Festival is set to return to Petersfield on October 31, 2023, offering vital support and resources for local residents affected by dementia. Scheduled to take place at Churcher’s College, the festival aims to provide a comprehensive source of information and assistance for individuals living with dementia, as well as their families and caregivers.

Event Details and Community Impact

This annual event, inspired by the late Jeff Williams of the Petersfield Royal British Legion, has expanded significantly since its inception in 2019. This year, the festival will showcase more than 25 stalls, each representing various organizations dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by dementia. Participants include the Alzheimer’s Society, the Princess Royal Trust for Carers, and the Older Person’s Mental Health Team.

According to Audrey Morton and Julie Butler, event organizers, “This year there are 25 organizations taking part, including the Alzheimer’s Society, Princess Royal Trust for Carers and the Older Person’s Mental Health Team.” They further noted that the festival will feature a presentation by Dr. Boothby at 11:00, alongside entertainment from the Dementia Choir and singer Archie McKeown.

The event is free to attend and will be held in The Auditorium of the Ramshill school from 10:00 to 13:00. Attendees can enjoy free parking and refreshments provided by the beloved Winton House Centre, which will operate a café on-site. Local dementia-friendly groups will also participate, helping to foster a sense of community.

Legacy of Jeff Williams

The festival is a testament to the legacy of Jeff Williams, who was known for his tireless efforts to raise awareness about the realities of living with dementia. “There is a real community feel to this event that was instigated by the late Jeff Williams,” Morton and Butler emphasized. “He worked tirelessly to improve awareness and improve the perception of what it was like to live with dementia.”

For those seeking more information about the festival, Audrey Morton can be reached at 07966 759929 and Julie Butler at 07788 243138. This event promises to be a significant opportunity for education, support, and community engagement for those impacted by dementia in East Hampshire.