EquaDem’s first Annual Conference, held at Hope Street Hotel in Liverpool in April 2025, brought together researchers, health and social care professionals, public advisers, charities and community groups, stakeholders and decision makers from across the UK.
The successful event produced strong engagement and lively discussion throughout the day with attendees sharing ideas, comparing regional experiences and forming new connections that will support future collaboration.
A highlight of the day was the contribution from Debbie Abrahams MP, co-lead of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Dementia. Debbie spoke about the importance of reducing inequalities in dementia pathways and the value of co-produced, evidence-based research in shaping national policy. We were also joined by Anne Marie Lubanski from Liverpool City Council, The Global Brain Health Institute: A Force for Equity in Brain Health, presented by Anne-Marie Glynn and amongst others, Elaine Campbell from Alzheimer’s Society
Looking ahead, planning is already underway for next year’s conference. The 2026 EquaDem Annual Conference will be hosted by Newcastle University next May, bringing the network together once again to share learning, strengthen partnerships and continue driving efforts to make dementia diagnosis and care fairer for all.
What People Liked About the Event
Attendees highlighted the inclusive and collaborative nature of the conference, as well as the quality of speakers and opportunities to connect. Feedback included:
- “The balance of clinicians and lived experience was just right — fantastic venue.”
- “Good networking opportunity, excellent speakers.”
- “Everything — great venue, great speakers and loved that an MP and city lead attended.”
- “There was a lot packed into the session to make the most of the day.”
- “To hear about the research looking into dementia.”
