Pop Up performances explore dementia for Carers Week

The characters will interact with regulars and visitors around the University of Salford at MediaCity inviting people to open conversations and break down the barriers to discussing care and caring roles – all in a humorous and supportive environment.

The actors are cast members of a show called ‘Barbara’, devised by theatre maker Mark Croasdale, and developed with volunteer Dementia Associates from the University of Salford’s Institute for Dementia and Ageing – or Dementia Hub as it is also known.

Mali Pocsai, Community Engagement Officer at University of Salford has advised theatre maker Mark Croasdale on the performances.

 Mali stated, "The characters may remind you of Hyacinth Bouquet’s etiquette and consummate hosting abilities. We aim to use humour and interaction to break down barriers to discussing care roles and dementia. We always say, everyone is cared about or cares for someone, so let’s make talking about it lose its stigma, especially in the run-up to Carers Week."

“The rather confident female characters – named Barbara, Bea, and Babs will chat to people and hopefully bring a smile to people’s faces, at the same time as getting them thinking about caring roles, and about the experience of being cared for.

We understand that dementia is a serious issue, but we believe that using humour can help break down barriers and open conversations about care and dementia. By getting the tone right and incorporating a lighter approach, we aim to make it easier for people to discuss this important subject. As Dementia Associates, we will be on hand for support and to distribute local information about dementia care and what we do at the University of Salford’s Dementia and Ageing Hub.”

Professor Andrew Clark is from the Institute for Lifecourse Development at the University of Greenwich and led on this project in his previous role as a professor with expertise in ageing and dementia at the University of Salford.

“The University of Greenwich and the University of Salford have a record of working alongside people affected by dementia in research teaching and engagement activities,” said Professor Clark.

 “Our research has shown how important keeping active, socially engaged, and connected to others is for people living with a diagnosis, as well as for their family and friends, and all of us have a part to play in ensuring people living with dementia feel supported and a part of our communities. We are delighted that the University of Salford’s Dementia Associates and staff associated with the Dementia Hub are a part of this important performance, and we are so pleased to be able to expand the work with the support of the University of Greenwich."

The University of Salford’s Institute for Dementia and Ageing provides essential teaching and learning to the University’s student body and conducts vital research and community engagement work into living well with dementia.

ENDS

For further information or to arrange an interview with Mali Pocsai Community Engagement Officer at the University of Salford’s Dementia Hub, Mark Croasdale or performers please contact S.Mackean@Salford.ac.uk

NOTES TO EDITORS:

The University of Salford’s Dementia Hub focuses on the challenges faced by people living with dementia and their care partners and seeks to improve their lives in positive and meaningful ways.

A purpose-designed Dementia Hub was opened in 2017 as a space in which to work and run groups for people living with dementia and care partners living in the Greater Manchester area.  It is supported by a group of Dementia Associates, who are people with direct experience of dementia who provide guidance and advice on a range of teaching, research, and community engagement work.