Key Learnings from the Brightlife initiative:

• Developing a new brand is a long process and it takes time (and a lot of promotional work) for the name to resonate with professionals and the general public.
• Establishing referral pathways can be very difficult with new services. Having a single point of access (such as a GP or other health service) would be helpful.
• Delivery of services in non-traditional settings is positive: it’s important not to stereotype people over 50 as ‘old’ and expect them all to engage with the same things.
• Carers want opportunities to take the person they look after out of the local area and to take part in different activities.
• People with dementia who attend groups with carers may need calmer settings to be able to engage effectively.
• Developing and delivering services collaboratively can be a challenge, as each organisation has its own mission, values etc.
• Volunteers may be reluctant to take on a role working with people with dementia.
• The staffing requirement of services aimed at people with dementia is significantly higher than for non-dementia-specific provision.
• Regular involvement of people with dementia in projects and services can be limited by their often poor health and other long-term conditions.