Young Dementia Network News

Member Spotlight: Julie Hayden – Championing Co-Production in Dementia Care

Julie Hayden from Halifax is a powerful advocate for young-onset dementia, using her lived experience to drive change. Diagnosed in 2017 at age 54, Julie has gone on to co-design and co-deliver a unique MSc module in Advanced Dementia Studies at the University of Bradford—developed with 22 people living with dementia and now shortlisted for a teaching award.

With a background in nursing and social work, Julie found the system unprepared for younger people with dementia. She responded by founding a peer support group, joining the Young Dementia Network steering group, and leading international forums for people living alone with dementia.

Her passion for person-centred, integrated care has made her a key voice in campaigning for a National Dementia Care Pathway. Julie continues to share her story through podcasts, public speaking, and policy work—showing how co-production and peer leadership can drive meaningful change.

Why it matters: Julie’s work highlights the value of involving people with lived experience in service design, education, and policy—something our VCSE sector strives to champion every day.

? Read more on the Young Dementia Network site

Dementia UK Summer School – Young Onset Dementia and Young Carers Session

Dementia UK is hosting its free annual Summer School from Tuesday 1st July 2025 to Friday 4th July 2025, aiming to improve practice in and knowledge of dementia care. Open to all health and social care practitioners, including students, VCSE workers, and allied professionals. The session on Wednesday 2nd July, 2–4pm will focus on young onset dementia and young carers. Book your place at the Dementia UK Summer School

Dementia Community – July Webinars

Join Dementia Community in July for its regular, free, one-hour webinars featuring: ‘Alleviating social isolation through intergenerational connections’ and ‘Designing inclusive environments for people living with dementia’.

Watch 'The Nature of Forgetting' at the Edinburgh Fringe

Theatre Re’s 'The Nature of Forgetting' tells the story of Tom, a middle-aged father living with young onset dementia. Described as “profoundly moving,” the play follows Tom as he prepares for his 55th birthday and memories return. Catch it at Pleasance Courtyard, Edinburgh Fringe from Saturday 9th to Saturday 23rd August 2025. Book tickets for The Nature of Forgetting at the Pleasance

'Dementia together' Magazine: Focus on Young Onset Dementia

The June/July issue of Alzheimer’s Society’s ‘Dementia together’ magazine features an inspiring interview with Martina Davis, a Young Dementia Network steering group member living with posterior cortical atrophy. She shares her journey to diagnosis and experience of living independently. This issue was co-created with the Young Dementia Thematic Group and includes stories from others affected by young onset dementia. See document attached below