Councillors share emotional stories as they back plan for dementia-friendly Cotswolds

Cllr Mark Harris opened the debate at a full council meeting on 21 January with an emotional account of what had prompted him to bring the motion forward. 

“Last year, a longstanding member of our community who has early onset dementia was found crying in the street because they didn’t know where they were,” he said. “Luckily, a resident recognised them and helped them get home safely to their family.” 

Cllr Harris told the chamber that the incident reminded him of guidance from the Local Government Association about the crucial role town and parish councils can play in shaping places to make them more supportive for people living with dementia and their families. 

“Dementia friendly communities are about everyday things - how easy it is to find your way around a town centre, how confident shop and restaurant staff feel, and whether people feel safe, included and supported rather than isolated,” he said. “This is a compassionate, sensible and forward-looking motion.” 

The motion asks the Council to explore best practice, work closely with the Alzheimer’s Society, local groups and town and parish councils, and bring back a short report setting out realistic next steps within existing or minimal additional resources. 

Several councillors shared moving personal experiences of caring for family members living with dementia. 

This included Cllr David Fowles, who said he had been the prime carer for his father, once a senior NATO official, as the condition progressed. 

“Ten years later he couldn’t even sign his own name,” said Cllr Fowles, going on to describe how simple acts of understanding made all the difference – like a restaurant staff member who gently reminded his father how to use a knife and fork. 

Cllr Andrea Pellegram said her mother had had Alzheimer’s. “She was terrified. It was terrifying. She didn’t know what was going on – it was horrible,” said Cllr Pellegram.  

Councillor Paul Hodgkinson praised the motion for being “thoughtful and practical”, saying it built on what was already happening across Gloucestershire. 

“It doesn’t reinvent the wheel or commit to expensive services - it’s about showing leadership, coordinating what’s already working, and helping our towns and villages join things up,” he said. Cllr Hodgkinson also spoke about visiting an “inspiring” dementia friendly café in Bourton-on-the-Water, where people with dementia, carers and families enjoyed games and conversation.  

Others highlighted the future importance of dementia aware design in neighbourhood planning and the need to support confidence, reduce isolation and ensure people feel safe in their communities. 

Councillor Lisa Spivey reminded the chamber that Gloucestershire faces a rapidly ageing population, making the issue increasingly urgent. 

The motion passed unanimously with strong cross-party support, Members agreed that a short report be brought back to the chamber in six months outlining potential steps the Council could take towards the goal of becoming a dementia-friendly district.