Dementia Workshops

Expert dementia training for family carers, community groups and professional staff across the UK

Our dementia group workshops are suitable for family carers, community group members and health and social care professionals offering practical, evidence-based dementia training in a supportive, interactive setting. Whether you're caring for a loved one at home or working in a care environment, our workshops give you the knowledge, skills and confidence to make a real difference.

Research shows that interactive, small-group delivery that combines expert guidance with real-world experience works best and that's exactly how we deliver our sessions.

Every person's dementia journey is different but many of the challenges are shared. Learning alongside others who truly understand is both reassuring and transformative.

We'll be adding more workshops with different themes over the coming months so suggest you check back regularly.

Let's Talk Dementia

 

 
 
 

Our Workshops

Dementia Decoded

(In-Person - 2 half day sessions)

A practical training designed for community groups wanting to make a real difference for those living with dementia

This interactive course helps your group to understand what's really happening and what to do about it without clinical jargon or overwhelm.

Built on the trusted Positive Approach to Care® methodology, the course moves you from a confused "What's happening?" to "Here's what you can do next" with actionable steps, not just information, strengthening confidence, competence and compassion. 

What you'll take away:

  • A clear understanding of what dementia actually is and what it isn't so you can separate fact from myth
  • The ability to spot the difference between typical ageing and genuine warning signs, giving you sharper awareness and earlier confidence to act
  • A brain-to-behaviour connection - understand why communication shifts, so responses feel less baffling and more manageable
  • Practical knowledge of the GEMS® States of Brain Change framework - a real-life tool to guide your responses in the moment
  • Hands-on supportive approaches you can apply straight away

Sounds like exactly what your group needs?

Contact us today and take the first step towards playing a part of changing the culture of dementia care in the UK

Make an Enquiry

Beyond Behaviour

(In-Person - 2 hours)

Understanding the brain, seeing the person, responding with confidence

When someone living with dementia acts in a way that's hard to understand, it's easy to feel frustrated or lost. But what if that behaviour is actually a form of communication - a way of expressing a need that can't be put into words?

This introductory practical workshop helps you shift perspective from “Why are they being difficult?” to “What might they be experiencing right now?”

You'll come away with:

  • A clear, jargon-free understanding of what dementia does to the brain
  • Insight into why people living with dementia may seem confused, resistant or uncooperative
  • Practical, compassionate responses that reduce stress for everyone
  • The confidence to recognise when a situation is escalating and what to do
  • A fresh perspective that can genuinely transform your day-to-day interactions

Who it's for: Family carers, community groups, health and social care staff and anyone who wants to better understand and support people living with dementia.

Ready to change the way you see dementia?

Get in touch with Dementia Training UK to book this workshop for yourself, group or organisation. We'd love to help you find a more confident, compassionate way forward.

Make an Enquiry

 

What's Normal and What's Not?

(Online and In-person - 2-3 hours)

Making sense of ageing and dementia

We all notice changes as we get older in memory, vision, hearing and how we process the world around us. But how do you know what's a normal part of ageing and what might be a sign of something more?

This warm, engaging workshop helps you make sense of those questions. Through discussion, reflection and real-life examples, you'll explore the difference between typical ageing and dementia and discover how our senses shape our experience of the world.

You'll come away with:

  • A clear understanding of the difference between typical and atypical ageing
  • Insight into how the brain processes sensory information and how that changes with dementia
  • Greater empathy for the lived experience of people affected by dementia
  • Practical knowledge you can apply straight away

Who it's for: Family carers, community groups, health and social care staff and anyone curious about the ageing brain.

Curious about what's normal and what's not?

Contact Dementia Training UK today! We're happy to answer your questions and help you find the right workshop for your needs.

Make an Enquiry

 

The Missing Piece in Dementia Care

(In-Person - 2-3 hours)

How Positive Physical Approach® and Hand-under-Hand® transform care and relationships

Sometimes the smallest changes in how we approach someone can make the biggest difference. This hands-on, practical workshop introduces two remarkably effective techniques: Positive Physical Approach® (PPA™) and Hand-under-Hand® (HuH®) that can transform the way you connect with and support someone living with dementia.

When dementia affects vision, perception, and brain processing, everyday interactions can feel confusing or even frightening. These techniques help you create moments of calm, trust, and genuine connection even in difficult situations.

You'll come away with:

  • A clear understanding of why traditional communication approaches often don't work
  • Step-by-step mastery of the Positive Physical Approach® process
  • Practical skills to reduce distress, fear and resistance to care
  • Techniques that support independence rather than creating dependence
  • Confidence when supporting someone who's withdrawn, distressed or uncooperative
  • Skills that help with mobility, eating, personal care and meaningful activities
  • Tips for adapting your approach for people with hearing loss, sight loss or other conditions

Who it's for: Family carers, community groups, health and social care staff and anyone wanting simple, practical skills that make a real difference.

Want to see these techniques in action?

Reach out to Dementia Training UK to arrange a session. Whether you're a family carer, community group or part of a care team, we'll help you find a time and format that works for you.

Make an Enquiry

 

Discovering the Hidden GEMS®

(In-Person - 1-2 hours)

Changing the way we see dementia one GEM at a time

What if we stopped focusing on what a person can no longer do and started recognising what they can still do?

This interactive workshop explores the GEMS® model, a positive and practical way of understanding dementia that focuses on abilities before disabilities.

Together we'll explore:

  • Why traditional approaches don't always tell the whole story.
  • The six GEMS® states and what they can teach us about changing brain function.
  • How to recognise retained abilities, strengths and potential.
  • Why behaviour is often a meaningful response rather than a problem to be managed.
  • Practical ways to adapt communication and support.
  • Through discussion, activities and real-life examples, you'll gain a fresh perspective on dementia and leave with ideas you can immediately put into practice.

You'll leave with new way of thinking about dementia with more confidence in recognising abilities that remain along with practical tools to support communication and connection.

Every positive change in dementia care starts with seeing the person, not the condition or task

To arrange a workshop or find out more, get in touch with Dementia Training UK. we'd be delighted to discuss how this session could benefit your group, organisation or team.

Make an Enquiry

 

 

Why Workshops Work

Dementia workshops aren't just about learning, they're about connecting and collaboration. At Dementia Training UK, our dementia training workshops give you the confidence and skills to care for your loved one in real, meaningful ways.

Led in small groups, our sessions focus on building a supportive community and offering practical ideas you can start using immediately. These aren't stuffy lectures, they're interactive, lively and down-to-earth sessions of dementia care training, designed for busy family carers who need support that fits their lives. 

Weekend Access

Weekend sessions available, making it easier for working families and busy carers to attend.

Small Groups

Small group sizes ensure everyone gets plenty of attention and time to ask questions.

​ Practical Learning

Each dementia awareness workshop is packed with practical, hands-on activities you can put into action straight away.

 

Confidence Practice

Structured practice time helps you build confidence using techniques before you head home.

Shared Support

You'll have the chance to share, learn from others, and walk away feeling less alone.

​ Open Discussion

All sessions encourage open discussion, ensuring no question goes unanswered.

 
 
 
 

Benefits of Attending a Workshop

Why join a Dementia Training UK workshop? There's nothing like the reassurance of gaining practical dementia care skills in a supportive, friendly group setting. Our dementia workshops help you:

  • Discover proven, practical dementia care strategies that actually work day-to-day.
  • Practise specialised approaches in a safe, encouraging space.
  • Get real-time feedback from an experienced carer and trainer.
  • Enjoy the company and support of others who truly “get it”, fellow family carers in similar roles.
  • Feel more confident and reassured, knowing you're not alone in your challenges.
  • Build a network of trusted contacts for ongoing mutual support.
  • Learn self-care tips so you can look after your own wellbeing as you care for your loved one.

Workshops with Dementia Training UK combine hands-on training, peer connection and insightful discussion, ensuring you leave better equipped for whatever comes next.

 
 
 

What You'll Learn

Skills and Strategies You Can Use Right Away

Every session is designed to give you tools and confidence for your daily caring role. Our interactive dementia training workshops focus on:

Communication that connects

Communicating meaningfully, even when words are no longer easy.

Hand-under-Hand® & Positive Physical Approach™

Comfort-focused, respectful care using approaches like Hand-under-Hand® and Positive Physical Approach™.

6 GEMS® Framework

Understanding the unique characteristics of the 6 GEMS® model to recognise your loved one's emotional and cognitive state.

 

Managing Behaviour with Calm

Managing tricky or challenging behaviours with calm, reassurance, and skill.

Self-Care for Carers

Self-care techniques for stress reduction and burnout prevention.

Problem-Solving Together

Tackle real-life situations with your dementia training consultant by your side to guide, reassure, and celebrate every win

 

Learn what really works from Dementia Training UK: discover how a few practical changes can make your caring journey less stressful and more rewarding.

 
 
 

We Also Offer 1-1 Coaching

If you'd prefer individual support, we offer one-to-one coaching specifically for you and your loved one. Caring for someone with dementia can feel overwhelming and lonely; our personalised coaching gives you direct access to expert guidance, emotional support and practical strategies you can use straight away. We're here to walk alongside you through every stage, giving you confidence, clarity, and reassurance. Find out more about our 1-to-1 coaching sessions here.

 1-to-1 Coaching 

 
 

 

Led by an Experienced Carer and Dementia Educator

All Dementia workshops are led by Marion Harrington, an accredited PAC™ Certified and Licensed Independent Dementia Educator with a wealth of personal and professional experience.

Marion combines proven dementia expertise with real understanding, having been both a professional and family carer herself. Her sessions are never stuffy or academic - she brings humour, compassion and insight, offering practical advice that comes from her own experience.

Photo: London, July 2024 - Marion with CEO and Founder of PAC™, American dementia care expert Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA. 

Learn More About Marion

 
 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How long are your dementia workshops?

Most workshops are structured to last 2-3 hours either online or in-person. An exception to this is Dementia Decoded - an in-person workshop for community groups which is delivered over 2 half day sessions. Flexible dates make it easy for learners to attend at their convenience.

Are the dementia workshops interactive?

Yes - our dementia workshops are highly interactive focusing on hands-on practice, peer discussion and real scenarios to help carers immediately apply new dementia care strategies. You'll definitely not be bored!

Do you tailor dementia training for organisations or specific groups?

Absolutely. We offer dementia training for organisations and community groups, tailoring the content and approach to suit specific needs, schedules and group dynamics.

What approaches do you use in your dementia workshops?

Our workshops use an Adult Experiential Learning Cycle structure to teach Positive Approach to Care (PAC®), Hand-under-Hand® techniques and the 6 GEMS® model. These emphasise practical, compassionate strategies proven to support both carers and people living with dementia.

Will staff or carers receive certificates for attending dementia workshops?

Yes - participants receive certificates upon completion of our sessions, recognising their commitment to gaining practical and interactive dementia care skills.

Can dementia workshops help reduce the frequency of challenging situations?

Yes - workshops cover practical methods for managing what's commonly called behaviours that challenge, improving communication and increasing understanding. This empowers carers to respond with confidence and compassion.