SCIENTISTS are inviting the public to a free event on Monday 15 January, to hear more about current progress in dementia research.

The meeting involves talks from scientists at the forefront of research and is organised by members of the Alzheimer’s Research UK South Coast Network Centre, a community of dementia researchers from universities across the South Coast, including Bournemouth.

Alzheimer’s Research UK funds more than £27m of dementia research across the UK, including pioneering work at the universities of Southampton, Portsmouth, Bournemouth and Brighton which allows scientists in the region to uncover more about the diseases that cause dementia.

Speakers include Prof Clive Holmes, a consultant old age psychiatrist based at Southampton General Hospital, who will talk about his research into tackling inflammation in the brain. Also speaking is Prof Hugh Perry, who will talk about exciting new initiatives that are accelerating research towards new treatments for dementia. Attendees will also have the chance to participate in Scientific Cafés, where small groups can talk to experts about dementia, their research and get answers to their questions. There will also be information stalls with free information about dementia for those who want to find out more about the condition.

Dr Diego Gomez Nicola is the Coordinator of the Alzheimer’s Research UK South Coast Research Network. He said: “Dementia is our greatest medical challenge and there is a desperate need for effective new treatments. The brain is the final frontier of biological research, and this event is a fantastic opportunity for people to hear about the cutting-edge science taking place to tackle the diseases that cause dementia."

According to Dr Katy Stubbs from Alzheimer’s Research UK: "There are around 850,000 people in the UK living with dementia, with nearly 20,000 in Hampshire alone," she said. "Research is providing hope for the future, but it’s not just about scientists in labs. People with dementia and their carers also play a critical role in shaping research and this open evening is a fantastic opportunity for discussing experiences and exchanging views."

The free event is being held from 4pm – 7:30pm on Monday 15 January at The Spark, Solent University Conference Centre, East Park Terrace, Southampton, SO14 0LY. Book your free place at https://southcoastdementiaevent.eventbrite.co.uk or by contact Katy Stubbs on 01223 824562.