Pontypridd is turning blue once again this May as Rhondda Cynon Taf Council teams up with local organisations and community groups to mark Dementia Action Week 2025. From May 19 to 25, a range of dementia-friendly events and activities will be held across the area, raising awareness about the importance of early diagnosis and ensuring that individuals living with dementia, including their loved ones, are supported.
Dementia is a progressive condition caused by various diseases that physically damage the brain, leading to memory loss, confusion, problems with language and understanding, and changes in behaviour. There are many different types of dementia, with the most common being Alzheimer’s Disease.
According to the Alzheimer’s Society, 1 in 3 people born in the UK today will be diagnosed with dementia in their lifetime. The importance of early diagnosis cannot be denied, with 91% of those effected saying that a diagnosis has helped them to access vital care, treatment, and support.
To mark the week, buildings across Rhondda Cynon Taf will be lit up in blue, with bows and bunting hung in our communities, to show solidarity and encourage action. Local organisations and community groups will also host a diverse programme of dementia-friendly events, including craft sessions, cinema screenings, pop-up information stalls, and even a 70s disco.
Additionally, the Alzheimer’s Society alongside local groups, will be providing key information and guidance on spotting symptoms and seeking diagnosis. Those concerned about dementia are also encouraged to check symptoms using the Alzheimer’s Society’s online symptoms checklist at: http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/form/checklist-for-dementia-symptoms.
Alternatively, please contact the Dementia Connect Rhondda Cynon Taf by phone on 0333 150 3456 (Welsh 0330 094 7400) or email: DementiaSupportLine@alzheimers.org.uk.
Find more information by visiting: Dementia Connect Rhondda Cynon Taff | Alzheimer's Society
Councillor Gareth Caple, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care and Older Person’s Champion, said: “Dementia remains one of the most pressing health and social care challenges of our time, impacting not only those diagnosed but also their families and loved ones. Dementia can be an isolating and overwhelming condition, but early diagnosis can make a huge difference.
“This Dementia Action Week, Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, alongside fantastic community partners, is working to raise awareness, provide support, and champion those affected by dementia. With buildings lighting up blue in solidarity, we want to send a clear message that no one should face dementia alone.
“By continuing to work together, we can ensure Rhondda Cynon Taf is a dementia-friendly community where people receive the help and support they need.”
Event Details:
Monday, May 19
- Creative Company Session, 10.30am – 12pm. This is a craft-based session hosted by Growing Space, Pontypridd at Temple Chapel in Graig (£4 fee to attend).
Tuesday, May 20
- Launch Event: Community Friends, 10am – 12pm. Held at Pontypridd Museum, a new monthly community initiative open to all, will provide a warm space for those with dementia and their loved ones. Launch event will include Music-based activity with “Pashy Pops”.
- Dementia Information Pop-up Event and Activities, 10am – 3pm at Garth Olwg Lifelong Learning Centre, Church Village. Information provision with stalls hosted by local groups and third sector partners so individuals can find out more about the services and support available to them.
- Dementia Information Pop-up Event, 10am – 12noon at Glyntaff Campus, University of South Wales. Information provision and promotion of Dementia Friends Digital Bitesize sessions.
Wednesday, May 21
- Coffee Morning, 10am – 12noon. Hosted at Sheltered Housing Scheme by Aelwyd (housing provider) in Plas Carmel, Pontypridd.
- Relaxed Cinema Showing of Summer Holiday, 11am start. Hosted at Y Muni, Pontypridd (£4 fee to attend).
- Dementia Information Pop-up Event and Activities, 10am – 1pm. Welcome and Choir Performance from Maes Y Coed Primary School, followed by information provision from local community and third sector partners so individuals can find out more about the services and support available to them. Taking place in Pontypridd Library.
- Intergenerational Blue Themed Celebration, live Music Performance and Tenovus Choir Performance, start time 11am – 3pm, hosted at YMa, Pontypridd.
- Effro Carer Connect Group Sessions, 10.30am – 12pm. Carers group providing peer support and activities including for those with a diagnosis hosted at YMa, Pontypridd.
- Walking Sing-along led by Trivallis - starting at 12:30pm at Trivallis building, to Pontypridd Market (12:45pm), Pontypridd Library (1:00pm) and onto YMa 2:00pm)
Thursday, May 22
- 70s Disco Hosted by Memory Assessment Team, 10am – 2pm. 70s disco alongside support, information, and advice hosted by Calon Taf, Ynysangharad Park.
- Art in the Park hosted by Growing Space Pontypridd – 10:30-12:00 Caffi Lido. Bilingual nature-based arts. £4 to attend.
- Memory Walk, 12.30pm – 1pm. Memory Walk in Ynysangharad Park with Aled from Calon Taf.
- Dementia Friendly Cinema “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”, 11am. Hosted at Garth Olwg Lifelong Learning Centre, Church Village.
Friday, May 23
- Breathing Space, 10am – 11.30am. Arts and Crafts session hosted by Growing Space Pontypridd at the Community Room in Pontypridd Museum.
Posted on 16/05/2025