We’re thrilled to announce that our art therapy team has been selected to join the pioneering STRiDE England study on dementia care, led by the Care Policy and Evaluation Centre at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). This study, funded by the National Institute for Health and Social Care Research (NIHR) through the Three Schools’ Dementia Research Programme, offers a unique opportunity for our team to contribute to ground-breaking research aimed at transforming the lives of those affected by dementia across England.
About the STRiDE England Study
The STRiDE England study is dedicated to understanding how dementia care is organised across the country, with a special focus on the first-hand experiences of people living with dementia and their families. This includes examining the current state of dementia care, uncovering gaps that may exist and identifying how different factors—like geographic location, ethnicity, or religion—can influence access to quality care and support.
Through this work, the study aims to answer two key questions:
How does the current structure of dementia care impact the health and wellbeing of those with dementia and their families?
How can dementia policies be strengthened to better serve those affected by the condition, especially in underserved communities?
To address these questions, researchers will analyse national policies on dementia care, gather input directly from people with dementia and their carers, and consult professionals who deliver and organise care services. This collaborative approach will help shape a clearer, more inclusive view of dementia care in England today.
The Role of Art Therapy in Dementia Care
Art therapy has long been recognised as a powerful tool in dementia care, providing people with dementia an expressive outlet that promotes emotional connection, reduces stress and enhances overall wellbeing. Our Thursday Art Together Group facilitates so much good for local people affected by dementia and their carers already. And so, by participating in the STRiDE England study, our art therapy team will be able to bring valuable insights into how creative therapies impact the mental health and quality of life of people living with dementia, offering an important perspective that could shape future care strategies.
Our involvement will allow us to:
Highlight the therapeutic benefits of art in dementia care and advocate for its inclusion in broader dementia policies.
Connect directly with people affected by dementia to gain a better understanding of their needs and preferences when it comes to creative, supportive therapies.
Collaborate with other researchers, carers, and policymakers to identify ways that art therapy can support individuals with dementia and their families, especially those facing barriers to care.
What STRiDE England Hopes to Achieve
In addition to analysing current practices, the STRiDE England team will work with people with dementia, carers, and professionals to create a practical roadmap for improving dementia care and support across the country. This roadmap will be based on comprehensive feedback from all stakeholders and will outline actionable recommendations to enhance care at both local and national levels.
As part of this mission, the STRiDE England project is committed to transparency and community engagement. Findings from the study will be made available through open-access reports, university websites, and biannual webinars, creating ongoing opportunities for feedback, discussion and community involvement.
For more information about the STRiDE England study, please visit their project summary.
We’re honoured to be a part of this vital research and look forward to contributing our expertise in art therapy to help shape a brighter future for dementia care in England. Thank you for supporting our journey to make a positive difference in the lives of people with dementia and their families.
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