In this episode of the Dementia Together Toolkit series, we speak with Karen Malkin, Clinical Lead Manager for the Dementia Liaison Service in Cornwall. Karen provides expert advice on the importance of early planning for dementia care, particularly focusing on the crucial steps to take before a diagnosis progresses.

Karen explains how to navigate issues like mental capacity, and why it’s important to address them in the early stages of dementia. She also covers the legal considerations of setting up a lasting power of attorney and an advance care plan, ensuring that individuals living with dementia can have their wishes respected as their condition progresses.

With valuable tips on ensuring that both individuals and their families are prepared for the journey ahead, this episode is a must-listen for those looking to make informed decisions about care and support. Tune in to hear how proactive planning can make a world of difference in ensuring a person’s dignity, choices, and wellbeing are upheld throughout their dementia journey.

🌟 Welcome to the Dementia Toolkit Video Series 🌟 Your one-stop shop for everything dementia-related. In this series, we provide simple, educational advice to support you on your dementia journey. Learn from professionals and individuals with lived experience as we address key questions and offer personalised guidance.

In this episode, we’re joined by Allison O'Kelly, an advanced clinical practitioner with extensive experience in the Memory Assessment Service in Cornwall. Alison shares her journey into dementia care, discussing the evolution of the Memory Assessment Service and its crucial role in diagnosing and supporting those with dementia. With a background in clinical practice, Alison explains how the service has expanded over the years, offering a range of support options including assessments, diagnoses, and follow-up care for individuals living with dementia.

This podcast is relaxed, inclusive, and welcoming, making it a must-listen for anyone looking for reliable, supportive, and accessible information on dementia care. Whether you're a professional, a carer, or someone living with dementia, the Dementia Together Toolkit is here to provide expert advice, support, and hope for navigating the dementia pathway.

🌟 Welcome to the Dementia Toolkit Video Series 🌟 Your one-stop shop for everything dementia-related. In this series, we provide simple, educational advice to support you on your dementia journey. Learn from professionals and individuals with lived experience as we address key questions and offer personalised guidance. -

🎧 Listen to the podcast now and hear how your stories are helping to challenge policy, shift attitudes, and push for accessible, inclusive parking across Cornwall.

A massive thank you to the 629 people who responded to our Blue Badge parking survey, especially the 250+ who shared detailed comments. Your voices have made one thing clear: the system is not working for many of us, and it's time for change.

🔍 What you told us: 44% faced delays or issues applying for or renewing their Blue Badge. 63% couldn’t pay for parking due to inaccessible systems. 80% avoid venues with poor disabled parking provision. 75% believe businesses are missing out on the £140 million spending potential of Cornish Blue Badge holders, the power of the Purple Pound.

Your feedback has helped shape our special Blue Badge Day of Action podcast episode, featuring Cornwall Councillor Steven Webb and Steve Paget MBE. Together, we explore these issues and push for real action from those in power.

A thank you to Councillor Steven Webb for producing this podcast, please do check out his podcast 'Stillness in the Storms' on Spotify, Apple and YouTube.

Let’s make sure disabled people can access our towns, services and communities, not be shut out by poor parking design.

#BlueBadgeDayOfAction #PurplePound #AccessibleCornwall #DisabilityCornwall #InclusionMatters #NothingAboutUsWithoutUs #BlueBadgeParking