Grassroots Engagement
We need you to play an active part in The Alzheimer Society of Ireland local campaigning and awareness raising activities
Why does local campaigning and awareness raising matter?
One of the key strategic objectives of The Alzheimer Society is to raise the public and political profile of dementia to ensure that:
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There is a more accurate understanding of dementia and people’s journey with the condition
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Stigma, which can prevent people seeking the supports and services they need, is reduced
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Dementia remains a national health priority so that the services people need are delivered when and where people need them
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People with dementia, their families and carers have a voice in policy and decision making at a local, regional and national level.
What can you do to help?
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland has a dedicated advocacy team who can support you to run a local or regional campaign to lobby politicians, decision makers and those with influence in your community and/or to share your knowledge and understanding about dementia to raise local awareness.
We want you, our grassroots network, to join us in championing the rights of people living with dementia.
You can help support us by:
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Local campaigning - raising awareness and increasing understanding about dementia
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Spread the word - encourage your friends and family to get behind this and join The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s campaign
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Let us support you in writing or arranging a meeting with your local TD to highlight the issues that are important to you
National Dementia Summit 2011
In June 2011, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland hosted a National Dementia Summit at Buswell’s Hotel, Dublin and Dail Eireann.
Further to a commitment to a National Dementia Strategy in the Programme for Government 2011, the aim of The Summit was to secure a mandate from carers and people living with dementia on what is needed in Ireland to live well with dementia.
The Summit was a great success involving 21 family carers and people living with dementia from all over the country. Following focus groups in the morning, CEO Maurice O’Connell led the group across to Dail Eireann, under the invitation of Minister for Disability, Older People, Equality & Mental Health Kathleen Lynch T.D., where there was an opportunity for some of the countries politicians to hear more about the issues raised.
You can read more about the National Dementia Summit here
This report has formed the cornerstone of the lobbying materials we have produced to influence the development of a National Dementia Strategy, such as this Action on Dementia document.