Pontypridd will turn blue once again this May as Rhondda Cynon Taf Council joins local organisations, community groups and partners to mark Dementia Action Week 2026 from May 18-24.
Throughout the week, a wide programme of dementia-friendly events and activities will be held across Pontypridd – helping to raise awareness of dementia, promote the importance of early diagnosis, and ensure that those living with dementia (along with their families, friends and carers) feel supported, included, and connected within their local community.
Events will take place in local venues – including YMa, Pontypridd Library, Pontypridd Museum, Meadow Street Community Garden, Calon Taf and Y Muni – and will include creative workshops, reminiscence and myth-busting sessions, as well as live music, performances, information stalls and opportunities for people of all ages to come together and connect. Additionally, buildings across Rhondda Cynon Taf will be lit up in blue to show solidarity and encourage more people to take action.
A key highlight of the week will be the Community Activity Day on Wednesday, May 20, delivered by Dementia Friendly Pontypridd and supported by Rhondda Cynon Taf Council. The day will bring together a wide range of dementia-friendly activities in the heart of Pontypridd town across YMa and Pontypridd Library, including creative workshops, live music performances, advice sessions and community walks. Open to all ages, this free event aims to encourage connection, reduce stigma and showcase the support available locally.
Cerilynne Higgins, Chair of Dementia Friendly Pontypridd, said: “Dementia friendly Pontypridd hosts Turning Ponty blue during Dementia action week to raise awareness and increase community connection by delivering opportunities to try new and familiar activities, and access information and advice in local venues. The event is open to all, and just one example of the commitment of Dementia friendly Pontypridd and partners throughout the year to make our communities welcoming and accessible.”
Dementia Action Week is an annual campaign that was set up to encourage people to take action in support of people affected by dementia while highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and support services. Turning Ponty Blue was established as part of this week by Dementia Friendly Pontypridd.
Dementia is a progressive condition that affects nerve cells in the brain, leading to memory loss, confusion, difficulties with communication and changes in behaviour. It is the UK’s biggest killer and there are many different types, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common.
According to the Alzheimer’s Society, 1 in 3 people in the UK and 1 in 2 people in Wales are living with dementia without a diagnosis. Early diagnosis plays a crucial role, with 91% of those affected saying there are clear benefits to having a diagnosis.
Anyone with concerns about dementia is encouraged to use their online symptoms checklist at: www.alzheimers.org.uk/form/checklist-for-dementia-symptoms.
Councillor Gareth Caple, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Older Persons Champion, said: “Dementia continues to be one of the most significant health and social care challenges we face, with it being the biggest killer in the UK. It can be an isolating experience, but early diagnosis and the right support can make a real difference.
“For Dementia Action Week, the Council is proud to collaborate with local organisations, community groups and voluntary partners on a series of events that aim to raise awareness, challenge misconceptions, and provide signposting to vital support. By turning Pontypridd blue once again, we show our solidarity with those affected by dementia.
“Through collaboration and community action, we are committed to making Rhondda Cynon Taf a dementia-friendly community where those affected by dementia and their loved ones feel understood, valued, and supported.
“I encourage everyone to take part in whichever sessions suit them most.”
To find out more about Dementia Action Week, please visit: https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-involved/dementia-action-week
For dementia support, please visit: https://www.rctcbc.gov.uk/EN/Resident/AdultsandOlderPeople/Helptoliveathome/Needsassessmentforadultsorolderpeople.aspx
Local Events
Monday (May 18)
- Monday Meet-Up: Reminiscence and Myth-busting, Pontypridd Museum (10am-1pm). Delivered by Pontypridd Town Council.
Tuesday (May 19)
- Bridge Memory Group, Pontypridd Museum (10am-12pm). Delivered by Pontypridd Town Council.
Wednesday (May 20)
Community Activity Day at YMa and Pontypridd Library! Expect a day full of events:
- 10.30am: Official Opening. Welcome and opening remarks from the Mayor and Councillor Gareth Caple at YMa.
- 10.15am: Pottery Session. Creative pottery workshop held at YMa.
- 10:50am: Schools singing at Pontypridd Library.
- 11am: Future Care Advice Session. Information and guidance on planning ahead, held at YMa Pop-up Hub.
- 11.15am: Singing Session. Hosted in the YMa theatre.
- 11am: Harp Session. Held in the Glass Room at Pontypridd Library.
- 12:30pm: Exercise session, YMa.
- 1pm: Trivallis walk and sing. Starting at Pontypridd market.
- 1.30pm: Harp Session, YMa.
- 2.30pm: Samba Performance. Hosted at YMa.
- 3.25pm: Choir Performance. Hosted at YMa to close the event.
Other events:
- Sensory Garden Trail, 11am. Delivered by Pontypridd Town Council at Meadow Street Community Garden.
Thursday (May 21)
- Wedding Party and Reminiscence Session (10am-2pm), Calon Taf. Delivered by the Taff Ely Memory Team.
Friday (May 22)
- Y Muni & Dementia Friends Cinema Day, 10.30am – 1.30pm, 11am start (3-hour show), lunch break included.
A FREE dementia friendly day at Y Muni featuring:
- A short theatre performance by Kitisch N Sync collective.
- A nostalgic Memory Caffi experience with complimentary tea, coffee, sandwiches, and Welsh cakes.
- A relaxed screening of Blue Hawaii starring Elvis Presley and Angela Lansbury.
Delivered by Awen Cultural Trust. Tickets required due to catering capacity - book here.
Posted on 14/05/2026