Public invited to get involved in dementia research in the West

Researchers from the Universities of Bristol and the West of England are inviting members of the public to meet with expert scientists, find out about dementia research in the West, and help make that research better.

The free event is open to anyone with an interest in dementia research. The event will be held at UWE's Exhibition and Conference Centre on Tuesday 31 March from 12.00 to 16.00. It is free of charge but booking is required - tickets are available online  or by calling on 0117 414 7531. Lunch will be provided.

Organiser Dr Sarah Voss from UWE Bristol and Dr Sam Creavin from the University of Bristol. Sarah said, "Sam and I attended the 2014 South West Crucible and applied for funding to run an event to improve patient and public involvement in dementia research.

"It can be difficult to engage with patients and carers for dementia research for a number of reasons, including the progression and burden of the illness.  The idea of this event is that we engage with any members of the public who have an interest in dementia - for example, they may know someone with dementia or are worried that they might get it - in order to inform, direct and shape ongoing and future research.

"Leading scientists from the West of England and Wales will give focussed 10 minute talks about their research and then take questions. Members of the public may be asked for their opinion on the research, and will have the opportunity to sign up on the day to hear more about dementia research in the West."

Sam said, "For members of the public, being involved in research or science usually means filling out forms, having a special scan or test, or taking a new medicine, so that researchers can try to work out how to make things better for patients.

"But there are other ways for the public to be involved in research. Researchers need advice and input from patients, carers, and interested members of the public to help understand what the key issues are and what would most help patients and families.

Tickets for the event are available online through Eventbrite