What Does a Dementia Hub Do?

 

Although each hub is slightly different, most provide the following:

 

 

1. Information and Advice

 

Dementia Hubs help people understand:

 

• What dementia is

• The different types of dementia

• What to expect as the condition progresses

• How to navigate social care and NHS support

• Benefits, legal matters, and local services

 

You can ask any question — nothing is too small or too personal.

 

 

2. Support for Carers

 

Carers often feel isolated or overwhelmed.

Dementia Hubs offer:

 

• Carer support sessions

• Emotional support

• Practical coping strategies

• Help organising respite breaks

• Signposting to benefits and rights

• Connections to local carer groups

 

 

3. Practical Help and Signposting

 

A Dementia Hub can connect you with:

 

• Occupational therapy

• Home-care services

• Memory clinics

• Day centres

• Technology support (alarms, trackers, telecare)

• Local charities

• Carers’ services

• Legal and financial advice

 

They help you understand what support is available, and how to access it.

 

 

4. Activities for People with Dementia

 

Many hubs offer friendly, inclusive activities such as:

 

• Music sessions

• Reminiscence groups

• Gentle exercise

• Craft activities

• Cognitive stimulation groups

• Dementia cafés

 

These activities help maintain skills, reduce loneliness, and bring enjoyment.

 

 

5. Early Intervention and Post-Diagnostic Support

 

After a diagnosis, many families feel lost.

Dementia Hubs often provide:

 

• One-to-one sessions with dementia advisers

• Guidance on the next steps

• Help planning ahead

• Information about treatments and therapies

• Advice for staying safe and independent at home

 

They ensure nobody is left unsupported after diagnosis.

 

 

6. Help with Forms and Applications

 

Dementia Hubs often help with:

 

• Attendance Allowance forms

• Carer’s Allowance

• Blue Badge applications

• Council tax reduction (Severe Mental Impairment exemption)

• Power of Attorney guidance

• Social care referrals

 

This is invaluable — paperwork is often a major burden for families.

 

 

Who Runs a Dementia Hub?

 

Dementia Hubs are usually run by:

 

• Local councils

• Charities (e.g., MindCare, Alzheimer’s Society)

• NHS trusts

• Partnerships between health and social care teams

 

Bromley Dementia Hub, for example, is run by MindCare as part of Bromley Well.

 

 

Who Can Use a Dementia Hub?

 

Most hubs are open to:

 

• People with dementia (at any stage)

• Family members

• Unpaid carers

• Friends or neighbours supporting someone

• Professionals looking for advice

 

Many services are free, and you do not need a formal social-care referral.

 

 

Why Dementia Hubs Matter

 

A Dementia Hub brings together the scattered pieces of dementia support and puts them in one welcoming place.

It helps families:

 

• Feel less alone

• Understand their options

• Plan ahead

• Access support sooner

• Reduce anxiety and confusion

• Find community and connection

 

For many people, the Dementia Hub becomes a lifeline.