When I first became involved in dementia research, I was not expecting community engagement to form such an essential part of it. Like many researchers, I was used to a relatively linear approach to research - define a question, collect data, publish the findings. But being part of the Dementia Community Research Network (DCRN) has changed how I think about research and collaboration.
The DCRN is a growing network of researchers, public contributors, and community-based dementia support services working together to improve dementia care and research in south London. By bringing together people affected by dementia, local service providers, and academic researchers, the DCRN aims to make dementia research more inclusive, accessible, and relevant to diverse communities.
Community networks like ours play an important role in bridging the gap between research and practice. They provide a platform where relationships can develop and where knowledge can be shared across sectors. This collaborative approach has been shown to increase engagement with research and ensure that studies reflect the real-world experiences of those living with dementia.
The DCRN operates through regular collaboration and ongoing knowledge exchange. Monthly meetings bring together members to share updates, identify priorities, and co-develop projects. These contributions help ensure that dementia research is grounded in the realities of everyday life for people affected by the condition. This model of co-production and engagement allows researchers to develop more relevant studies and encourages public trust in the research process.
The DCRN is particularly focused on making research more inclusive by engaging people from minoritised ethnic communities who are often underrepresented in dementia research. This goal was shaped during a co-production workshop involving public members and community partners, where shared values and priorities were defined collaboratively.
As research informs care, ensuring broad participation is vital for developing effective, culturally appropriate services. By working together, DCRN members aim to challenge existing barriers and promote equal access to research opportunities for everyone affected by dementia.
To achieve this aim of collaboration, we partner with several dementia support services local to south London. They conduct several activities to help support people affected by dementia, such as dementia cafes, art workshops, and mindfulness-focused events. Our partners do incredible work in supporting people with dementia and have found joining the DCRN helpful in raising awareness for their services. These are:
One of the highlights of the DCRN calendar is our annual public engagement event, designed to showcase both local dementia services and the latest developments in dementia research. This year our event takes place on 19 May, 2pm to 4.30pm in Forest Hill. This free event, open to all, includes talks, interactive information stalls, and an artwork exhibition. The event is a valuable opportunity for members of the public, carers, support providers, and researchers to come together in one space, learn from one another, and discover how to get involved. Everyone is welcome—whether you’re connected to dementia personally, professionally, or are simply interested in learning more. This event is essential in informing how the DCRN can continue to refine its way of functioning by incorporating feedback from our partners, and in helping increase awareness about both the DCRN and dementia support services.
Currently, we are working on a few different research projects, including a scoping review of community engagement approaches for minoritised ethnic communities affected by dementia, and a project looking at the spiritual needs of people with dementia in care homes. As dementia support needs and research priorities evolve, the DCRN remains committed to long-term community engagement. The network continues to support inclusive research projects, co-create practical solutions, and raise awareness of dementia support services available in South London. Through its collaborative structure and continuous communication, the DCRN offers a model for how research can become more inclusive, accessible, and responsive to the needs of all communities—especially those too often left out of the conversation.
Geeti Kabra is a research assistant for the Dementia Community Research Network (DCRN) at King's College London. Geeti has a BA (Hons.) in Psychology and an MSc in Clinical Mental Health Sciences. Her research interests lie in increasing inclusivity in dementia research and care for ethnically minoritised communities through community engagement.
Read more about the work of the DCRN