Help vulnerable Londoners by becoming a Dementia Friendly Venue
The Foundation for Future London is pleased to support the Dementia Friendly Venues Charter, a new accreditation for London venues to show that they care about their patrons and have made steps to make their facilities more accessible, from the Mayor of London’s Culture team and the Alzheimer’s Society.
There are currently 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK with 72,000 living in London. These figures are predicted to rise as the population ages and as such represent a large section of audiences that many venues may have previously neglected. A dementia diagnosis should not prohibit accessing arts and culture and the Dementia Friendly Venues Charter aims to ensure that everyone can enjoy our world-class venues.
The Mayor of London’s Culture team are working with the Alzheimer’s Society with a goal to make London the world’s first Dementia Friendly City, part of the Mayor’s Commitment to make the city accessible for all. Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, said: “I was re-elected on a pledge to be a Mayor for all Londoners and that includes those living with dementia and their carers, so I am delighted to launch the world’s first Dementia Friendly Venues Charter today at the Museum of London.
“As our city begins to re-open and our campaign to attract visitors gets into full swing, I want to send a clear message that our cultural venues are here to welcome people with dementia and we all have a part to play to ensure our capital is a more welcoming place.”
Accredited venues receive training and support from the Mayor of London’s culture team and their partners. Venues are encouraged to make small changes to make their environment more accessible.
Signing up to the charter can help venues:
- Reach new audiences
- Have improved access provision
- Better engage with older people
- Improve their reputation
Venues can enter their details here to receive a starter pack and begin the journey to become a Dementia Friendly Venue: www.london.gov.uk/dfvc.