Universities share joint focus on dementia in Dumfries

The Open University in Scotland and University of the West of Scotland (UWS) have shared their joint commitment to improving the lives of those with dementia in the Dumfries area.

At an important event held at UWS’s Dumfries campus on Tuesday 3 June, guests heard from leading speakers in the dementia field, including Dr Anna Jack-Waugh, Senior Lecturer in Dementia at UWS, and Dr Katie Davis, Lecturer in Health and Social Care at The Open University, who talked about the concept of living well with dementia.

Dr Jack-Waugh discussed the development of the double award-winning Carers Academy in Dumfries, a programme specifically designed to support the needs of family members caring for a relative living with dementia. It aims to enhance understanding of the effects of dementia, support the development of practical care skills, and provide opportunities for peer-to-peer support and learning. Anna also talked about the feedback it has received from family carers, as well as sharing research findings on its impact.

Events like these provide an environment to foster meaningful collaboration, ensuring people with dementia and their families feel valued, respected, and supported in their individual journeys.”
Julie Orr, UWS

Dr Davis discussed myth-busting and living well with dementia, talking about what dementia is and what it isn’t, as well as some common myths and misconceptions about the condition, including challenging the view that you cannot live well with dementia.

The event was chaired by Wendy Chambers, Dementia Consultant from within NHS Dumfries and Galloway, and she also discussed the importance of brain health. Voluntary Health Scotland, the national intermediary and network for voluntary health organisations in Scotland, was also in attendance at the event.

Julie Orr, Senior Lecturer at UWS and the University’s Dumfries campus lead, organised the event. She said: 

“We were delighted to bring together the expertise of both UWS and The Open University for thought-provoking discussions on what we’re already doing, and what must be done, to fully support those diagnosed and living with dementia in the Dumfries area.

“There are some fantastic initiatives already underway within the local community, which are making a real and positive impact on these individuals and their families. However, we can always learn more, share knowledge and best practice, and continue to strive to contribute to what is a public health challenge. Events like these provide an environment to foster meaningful collaboration, ensuring people with dementia and their families feel valued, respected, and supported in their individual journeys.”

Derek Goldman, Senior Knowledge Exchange Manager, The Open University in Scotland, said:

“Dementia is one of the pressing societal issues of our time, and we are proud to be part of this important collaboration focused on sharing knowledge that matters to people’s lives. Bringing together academic expertise, lived experience, and community support creates the kind of innovation and inclusion needed to address the complexities of dementia care. It’s through partnerships like these that we can create lasting, positive change.”

4 June 2025