Dementia Journeys is a project that is helping people better understand what it’s like to care for someone with dementia at the end of life. It was led by researchers from University College London (UCL) and King’s College London as part of the EMBED-Care (Empowering Better End-of-life Dementia Care) and funded by the Economic and Social Research Council - National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Research Initiative and supported by the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Kent, Surrey and Sussex (ARC KSS) and ARC South London.
Originally launched as an exhibition at Science Gallery London in 2024, Dementia Journeys shared real stories from unpaid carers—people looking after loved ones with dementia. The stories are honest and emotional, showing both the difficulties carers face, and the love and dedication they give every day.
The project has now been turned into a website and a free magazine. These resources include artworks, poetry, a short, animated film, and messages from the public. Visitors can also learn about dementia care research, get support, and take action—such as writing to their MP to ask for better care for people with dementia.
Kath Sykes, ARC KSS Living Well with Dementia Implementation Lead, says:
“This week is Dementia Awareness Week and a stark reminder that dementia continues to be the number one cause of death in the UK.
"Last year, colleagues at UCL and King’s College London shared these powerful, often unseen stories of unpaid carers. These personal accounts show the emotional and practical challenges they face, and the deep love they give every day.
"Please take a look at their stories, messages, and hope for better end-of-life care for all people living with dementia: Dementia Journeys.”
The project shows how research and creativity can work together to help more people understand dementia—and inspire action for change.
Explore and share:
- Website: www.dementia-journeys.com
- Watch the animated poem: View on Vimeo
- Order a free magazine
- Email your MP to ask for better dementia care
- Learn about the research: EMBED-Care Programme.