Dementia isn’t just a health issue – it’s something that affects families, neighbours, and whole communities.
In Enfield, in north London, with numbers rising fast, we can’t afford to look the other way. Alison Carter Albert, chair of Enfield Dementia Network and a fierce community advocate, is leading the charge.
“It’s everyone’s business,” she says. “No single organisation can fix this on their own.”
This is where Enfield Dementia Network comes in – bringing together local groups, schools, creatives, and carers. Enabling people from all walks of life, to offer joined-up support. It’s not just about more services, but smarter ones that reflect the communities they serve.
“We’ve got one of the most diverse boroughs in the country,” Alison points out.
“You can’t just translate a leaflet and think the job’s done. We’ve got to meet people where they are – culturally and emotionally.”
It’s also not just about support after diagnosis. Prevention matters too. “Nearly half of all dementia cases could be delayed or prevented by addressing 14 possible risk factors, which includes vision and hearing loss, and high cholesterol,” Alison says.
“People deserve to know the risks, so they can take proactive steps to help their future selves.” Stigma is still a massive problem, especially in communities where dementia isn’t openly talked about.
Many people don’t get help until things are really bad, and that makes everything harder. Even professionals miss it in their own families.
Alison’s seen the damage that silence does. “I don’t want another child going through what I did, watching a loved one fade away without any support.”
Enfield Dementia Network is pushing hard for change – raising awareness, running events, and making sure no-one gets left behind. In Enfield, we’re not waiting for someone else to sort it. We’re doing it ourselves.
