Getting to Know Dementia
A 6-week dementia education programme developed by Teepa Snow and Positive Approach to Care® — delivered by Alison Watson-Shields, PAC® Certified Independent Trainer.
Currently fully funded by the National Lottery Community Fund — free to all participants.
Next cohort starting Monday 1st June 2026 6 weekly sessions · Mondays 10:00am — 12:00noon · The LiveWell Dementia Hub, Thornaby Places are limited to 16 participants. Register your interest now to avoid missing out.
About this programme
Getting to Know Dementia is designed for anyone who wants to develop a genuine understanding of dementia — not just the facts, but what it actually feels like to live with it, and what that means for the people providing support.
Over six sessions, we explore how dementia affects the brain, how it changes communication and behaviour, and what practical skills make a real difference. The programme is grounded in the Positive Approach to Care® framework developed by internationally recognised dementia specialist Teepa Snow.
It’s suitable for family carers, care home staff, social care professionals, volunteers, and members of the public. No prior knowledge is needed.
What the programme covers
Part 1 — What is Dementia, Really?
Part 2 — What Brain Changes and Shifts in Ability are Noticed When Dementia Happens?
Part 3 — Looking at Progression and Seeing More Than Loss — The GEMS States
Part 4 — The GEMS States Model — In the Right Setting and With the Right Care, All GEMS Can Shine
Part 5 — New Skills for Helping and Supporting — Positive Physical Approach
Part 6 — Being an Advocate and Building a Support Team
Course details
Start date: Monday 1st June 2026
Sessions: 6 weekly sessions
Day and time: Mondays, 10:00am — 12:00noon
Location: LiveWell Dementia Hub, Thorntree Road, Thornaby, TS17 8AP
Places available: Limited to 16 participants
Cost: Free — fully funded by the National Lottery Community Fund
About your trainer
Getting to Know Dementia is delivered by Alison Watson-Shields, a Positive Approach to Care® Certified Independent Trainer with over 20 years of experience in dementia care. Alison is also the founder of Young At Heart ULO CIC, a not-for-profit organisation providing peer support, activities, and community connection for people living with dementia and their carers in Stockton-on-Tees.
This course is funded through Young At Heart ULO CIC with support from the National Lottery Community Fund.
Book your free place
Places are limited to 16 participants and are allocated on a first come, first served basis. To register your interest or book your place, email Alison directly:
Please include your name and contact number. Alison will be in touch to confirm your place.
From the training room
Questions and topics that have come up during Getting to Know Dementia sessions — explored in more depth here.