Free Information Evening to Support Dementia Inclusive Community in West Cork

A free public event in Clonakilty next month aims to bring residents, businesses, and community groups together to help build a more dementia inclusive West Cork.

The information evening will take place on Tuesday, 10 March at Fernhill House Hotel, Clonakilty from 6pm to 8.30pm. Organised by the West Cork Dementia Inclusive Project, in partnership with the HSE's Dementia: Understand Together campaign, the event is open to all and designed to highlight practical steps communities can take to better support people living with dementia.

The West Cork Dementia Inclusive Project signposts supports to people living with dementia and their families across Bantry and Clonakilty. The evening will be led by Sinead Crowley, newly appointed Dementia Inclusive Project Worker for West Cork, and will feature contributions from dementia experts, local service providers, and representatives from community organisations.

Attendees will hear about how dementia can affect people, what supports are available in the West Cork area, and the everyday actions that can make a meaningful difference to those living with the condition and their families.

Sinead Crowley, Dementia Inclusive Project Worker, said:

"This event brings the Clonakilty community together to learn more about dementia and the small, meaningful steps we can all take to support our friends, neighbours, and customers who may be living with the condition. With greater understanding and awareness, we can help people with dementia feel connected and supported in their community."

Dr Tim Dukelow, Consultant Geriatrician, HSE South West, said:

"Increased awareness and community support can significantly improve quality of life for people living with dementia. This highly informative evening will increase awareness, improve knowledge, and highlight the many supports available locally."

Dr Emer Shanley, CHN Manager, West Cork, said:

"Creating a Dementia Inclusive Community is something we can only achieve by working together, and events like this play an important role in building that shared understanding. When people know more about dementia and feel confident in how to support someone living with it, it strengthens the fabric of our community. I'm delighted to see such strong collaboration across West Cork and I encourage residents, businesses, and community groups to get involved and learn how small actions can make a big difference."

The event is free to attend. For more information, contact the West Cork Dementia Inclusive Project.