Dementia Inclusive Cork City Launched to Make the City More Welcoming for People Living with Dementia

A three-year, community-led initiative to make Cork a city where people living with dementia can live well, feel valued and take part fully in everyday life was launched on Monday 12 October 2026.

Dementia Inclusive Cork City is led by the Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI), in partnership with Cork City Council and Age Friendly Cork City. The launch took place at The Glen Resource & Sports Centre in The Glen, and the ASI describes the project as aiming to help shape Ireland’s first Dementia Inclusive City.

Approximately 60 people attended, including people living with dementia, families and carers, local residents, community and voluntary groups, businesses, sports clubs, service providers and civic leaders. Attendees shared their experiences and ideas for a city that works for everyone, covering shops and services, public spaces, transport, leisure, health supports and neighbourhood life.

Over the three years, partners will build a shared knowledge base, turn evidence into action and deliver sustainable, city-wide change. The ASI and Cork City Council have already completed significant groundwork, including consultation, research and the development of a strategic roadmap. The next step is to ensure the initiative is shaped with, not simply for, the people and communities it is intended to serve.

Siobhan O’Connor, Head of Operations and Community Engagement, The ASI:

“A dementia inclusive city begins with listening. We want people living with dementia and their families to be at the heart of this work, alongside the communities, businesses and services that shape daily life in Cork. This launch is a chance for everyone to bring their ideas, experience and energy. Together, we can make inclusion visible in the everyday; in a warm welcome, an accessible service, a supportive neighbourhood and the confidence to stay connected. We are asking Cork to show up, speak up and help lead lasting change.”

Cllr. Joe Kavanagh, Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork City:

“Cork is at its best when we look out for one another and make sure everyone has a place in the life of our city. Dementia Inclusive Cork City is a powerful opportunity to put that community spirit into action. I encourage people living with dementia, families, local groups, businesses and services from across the city to join us at the launch. Your voice matters, and your involvement can help make Cork more welcoming, understanding and accessible for generations to come.”

The ASI is encouraging everyone to get involved, whether dementia is part of their own life, family, work or community. Anyone who wants to find out how local communities and businesses can show their support can contact Laura Curtin, Community Engagement Officer with the ASI, at friendsofASI@alzheimer.ie or on 087 3736496.

The initiative is working alongside the HSE’s Dementia: Understand Together campaign, a national partnership between the ASI, HSE, Age Friendly Ireland, Age & Opportunity, Dementia Services Information and Development Centre, and Healthy Ireland.

The Alzheimer National Helpline is open Monday to Friday, 10 am to 5 pm, and Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, on 1800 341 341. Readers can also email helpline@alzheimer.ie or use Live Chat at alzheimer.ie.