Plans to improve the lives of people living with dementia and their families across the city have been unveiled by Liverpool City Council and its partners.
The Dementia Strategic Action Plan aims to strengthen support services, improve awareness of dementia, and ensure people living with the condition can stay active and connected to their communities. It also highlights the importance of supporting carers and loved ones who play a vital role.
In Liverpool, there are currently around 3,500 people living with a diagnosis of dementia. It is estimated that a further 1,600 people may be living with the condition without a formal diagnosis. By 2040, this number is expected to rise to over 7,000 people.
In response to the challenges a new strategy has been developed in partnership with health organisations NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board, Liverpool Dementia Action Alliance, people with lived experience, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, the Alzheimer’s Society, and Primary Care.
The strategy is built around five key priorities:
Preventing Well – Raising awareness of dementia and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Diagnosing Well – Improving timely access to diagnosis so that people can understand their condition earlier, access the right support.
Supporting Well – Ensuring people and their carers can access high-quality, coordinated support services, information and advice, particularly at key transition points.
Living Well – Helping people with dementia to remain active, independent and connected to their communities.
Dying Well – Making sure people receive person-centred end-of-life care that respects their wishes and supports families during difficult times.
As part of the official launch, the council also hosted a moving photography exhibition featuring people living with dementia alongside their carers and loved ones. It includes participants from Sedgemoor Dementia Care Hub in Norris Green, which is owned by the council, and Active Minds in Toxteth, a care provider working in partnership with the council.
Together, they have co-created an exhibition that captures powerful images alongside personal stories and honest reflections on life with dementia, highlighting both the positives and the challenges.
The exhibition will become part of Liverpool Dementia Action Alliance’s ongoing awareness-raising work across the city.
Councillor Angela Coleman, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, said: “This Action Plan sets out our commitment to making Liverpool a place where people living with dementia feel understood, supported and valued. It’s about helping people to live well for as long as possible, while also ensuring carers and families have the support they need.
“The scale of the challenge is significant. That’s why it’s so important we work together. No single service or organisation can do this alone, and this plan brings together partners across health, social care, the council and the voluntary sector to make a real difference.”
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Public Health, added: “Dementia affects many people across the city, and, for me, it’s something I have seen the impact of personally. Raising awareness is key to breaking down stigma and encouraging earlier access to support. This plan brings partners together with a shared focus on prevention, early diagnosis and helping people remain connected to their communities.”
Stephen Boswell visits Sedgemoor Dementia Care Hub and took part in the exhibition. #
He said: “I’ve really enjoyed being part of the photography exhibition. It’s given me the chance to share my story and show that life doesn’t stop with dementia, we can still live full lives. There are challenges, but there are also many good days, and its important people see the person, not just the condition.”
