This Grief School panel discussion brings research experts together with people who have experienced grief and loss as a result of dementia.
The discussion is facilitated by Stuart Wright from Brunelcare, an award-winning Bristol based charity (est. 1941) that provides high quality housing, care and support for older people in the South West. Stuart has worked in health and social care for over 30 years, working with people with learning and behavioural issues before specialising in dementia care.
Joining him is academic Professor Richard Cheston. He provides a psychotherapy clinic at the RICE memory clinic in Bath, and co-developed the Living Well with Dementia post-diagnostic course. Richard’s primary clinical and research focus is around understanding dementia as an existential threat.
Anndeloris Chacon is an author, Registered Nurse and manager with Bristol Black Carers, Anndeloris finds joy in supporting others through the challenges they are facing. In 2019, Anndeloris received the Lord Mayor Medals Award, given to the unseen heroes of communities in Bristol who dedicate their work and life to striving for equality.
Researcher Dr Kirsten Moore also joins us. Kirsten specialises in dementia and end-of-life care, family care, and pre-death grief. Her current work, about the grief that carers often experience while caring for someone with dementia, is funded by an Alzheimer’s Society Senior Fellowship.
Finally, we welcome Alan Richardson to the panel, someone whose considerable personal experience of caring for his mother at home changed the course of his life. Alan is a Dementia Friends Champion and an award-winning Alzheimer’s Society volunteer who is now engaged in training, mentoring, research, and using his expertise in dementia care to help others.