Around 1,500 people in Islington live with dementia, which is caused by several diseases that affect the brain. Dementia may include symptoms of memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving and language. Islington is recognised by Alzheimer’s Society as a community working towards becoming dementia friendly.

In February 2023, Islington’s Ecology Centre at Gillespie Park was recognised as being a dementia-friendly venue. The centre works closely with Age UK Islington to deliver events aimed at improving the lives of people with dementia.

See what’s on at the Ecology Centre and other regular events for people with dementia and their carers:

Park cuppa

Every second Tuesday of the month, 10.30am–12noon
Islington Ecology Centre, Gillespie Park, 191 Drayton Park, N5 1PH

Join local people at the Ecology Centre for a cup of tea and chat. There is a themed discussion every session. Free for everyone, just turn up!

For more information, email Jo Corrall: Jo.Corrall@Islington.gov.uk

Cecelia’s Cafe

Every other Wednesday, 1.30–4.30pm
Hargrave Hall Community Centre, Hargrave Road, N19 5SP

Chat to people who have been affected by dementia in a friendly and relaxed social environment at the Cecelia’s dementia cafe.

If you would like more information about any of the services available, call 020 8121 5626 or 07484 089543, or email islington@alzheimers.org.uk

Singing for the brain

Every Monday except 30 May, 1.30–3.30pm
Hargrave Hall Community Centre, Hargrave Road, N19 5SP

Singing for the brain sessions are designed to promote wellbeing and build confidence in people living with memory problems.

For more information, contact Alzheimer’s Society Islington by calling 020 8121 5626 (9am-5pm, Monday to Friday) or email islington@alzheimers.org.uk

Memory Cafe

Every Tuesday, 10.30–12.30pm
Christ Church Highbury, 155 Highbury Grove, N5 1SA

The Memory Cafe is run by a committee of enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers, with its own constitution, whose aim is to offer free weekly hospitality to older people and their carers.

Find out more and see what’s on at Christ Church Highbury.

Park cuppa

Every Wednesday, 11am–12noon
Caledonian Park Clock Tower Centre, Clock Tower View, Market Estate, N7 9HF

Each week, Age UK Islington will put the kettle on and have a weekly topic to inspire conversation! There’s lots of opportunity to bring in photos and other memorabilia to share and have a chat.

Email activities@ageukislington.org.uk to book your free place.

Dementia-friendly swimming session

Every Wednesday until 14 June, 10–11am
Clissold Leisure Centre, 63 Clissold Rd, N16 9EX

This dementia-friendly swimming session is free for anyone with dementia and their carer. Just book in at reception if you’d like to attend – you will not be asked for proof of eligibility. Free refreshments will be provided following the session.

For more information, email Mikael Kiviniemi: Mikael.Kiviniemi@GLL.ORG

Health and nature walk

First Friday of every month, 10–11am
Gillespie Park, 191 Drayton Park, N5 1PH

Join this monthly walk in Gillespie Park, Islington’s smallest nature reserve, and watch the seasons change as you talk and chat. The walk is guided by Jo, who will speak about the wildlife and history of the park. The walk will last around 45 minutes, depending on the ability of attendees. There are several places to stop and sit throughout the park. The group will then return to the Ecology Centre for free tea, coffee and biscuits.

Book your free spot.

Become a dementia friend

A dementia friend is somebody who learns about dementia so that they can help their community. These actions do not have to be time consuming! From visiting someone you know with dementia to being more patient in the shop queue, every action counts.

If you are interested in becoming a dementia friend, watch this five-minute video or sign up to attend a free dementia friend session that explains how it works.

For more information about Dementia Friendly Islington, visit Islington Council’s One You website, which is kept up to date with what the council’s community partners are doing and upcoming events.