Help Shape the Future of Dementia Care: Join the Time for Dementia Programme

At Foresters Friendly Society, we’re supporting Alzheimer’s Society for our 2025/2026 Annual Charity Appeal and we’re proud to be shining a spotlight on the Time for Dementia programme,  a powerful initiative run by Alzheimer’s Society and Brighton and Sussex Medical School.

This unique programme gives families affected by dementia the chance to educate tomorrow’s healthcare professionals — simply by sharing their story.

If you or someone in your family is living with dementia, the Time for Dementia Programme is an opportunity to:

  • Help shape the way future doctors, nurses and carers understand dementia
  • Build meaningful connections with compassionate students
  • Share your experiences to help improve dementia care across the UK

What Is the Time for Dementia Programme?

Time for Dementia pairs healthcare students with families living with dementia. Over two years, students visit the same family up to six times — either in person or via Zoom.

These relaxed, informal visits aren’t about tests or assessments. Instead, they’re about:

  • Sharing your day-to-day experiences of dementia
  • Helping students learn the realities of caring and living with the condition
  • Encouraging empathy and person-centred care for the next generation of healthcare workers

Who Can Take Part?

You don’t need a memory assessment to get involved, just a diagnosis of dementia and a family member, friend, or carer who can join you during each visit.

The programme is open to families across the UK:

  • In-person visits are available near participating universities
  • Virtual visits are available wherever you live

Why Your Involvement Matters

Families often say they feel empowered, valued and hopeful knowing they are making a lasting difference.

Students gain life-changing insights that textbooks can’t teach – understanding dementia from a human perspective. The result? Better care standards for the future.

How to Get Involved

If you meet the criteria, we encourage you to consider joining the programme. You can:

Your story could help with how dementia is understood and cared for in the future.

Foresters Friendly Society: Supporting Members Every Step of the Way

We know that living with dementia can be challenging and can impact anyone. That’s why Foresters Friendly Society is here to support our members with:

  • Discretionary grants for practical help
  • Community connection through local Branches
  • Member benefits designed to offer support when it’s needed most

Together, we can make a difference — not just for our members, but for everyone and the future of dementia care.

If you require support:

  • Speak to your local Branch Secretary to find out what help is available
  • Check out our website for more information about our member benefits

All grants offered by the Society are discretionary. Qualifying periods apply. The membership benefits we provide aren’t regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority or the Prudential Regulation Authority and are regularly reviewed by us to ensure they are relevant to our members.

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