From the Greater London Authority:
Since the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, launched the world’s first Dementia Friendly Venues Charter in May 2021, cultural spaces across London have been working hard to make sure every Londoner with dementia and every carer, has a welcoming, dementia‑friendly venue in their local area.
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, has expressed his continued support for this work, saying,
“I’m delighted that the next phase of my Dementia Friendly Venue Charter is launching, sending a clear message that our cultural venues are here to welcome people with dementia. The evidence for the positive impact that cultural engagement has on the wellbeing, communication and social connection of people living with dementia is clear, and I want to thank the 170 venues already signed up to the Charter for all their work so far. I urge the rest of London’s venues to join them, as we build a better London for everyone.”
As part of the next phase, Mortar will enhance the Charter portal so venues can access guidance and accreditation tools more easily. They will run the new Community Webinars and offer direct support to venues using the portal and progressing through accreditation
The Dementia Friendly Venues Charter (DFVC) is a simple and supported framework that helps cultural spaces become more inclusive for people affected by dementia. It encourages practical changes such as clearer signage, sensory‑friendly tours, relaxed performances, calm spaces and staff training. These small adjustments can make a big difference to comfort, confidence and enjoyment.
The Charter was co‑created with Alzheimer’s Society and the London Museum, ensuring the guidance is shaped by lived experience and best practice.
Looking for places that feel welcoming and supportive?
Dementia Friendly Venues are everyday cultural spaces; museums, libraries, theatres, galleries and community venues that are committed to being easier to navigate, calmer and more supportive. Staff receive guidance and training, and venues focus on small, thoughtful changes that help reduce stress, boost confidence and make visits more enjoyable. These spaces help people stay connected to the activities they love and help carers enjoy meaningful shared experiences too.
Dementia‑friendly design doesn’t only help those living with dementia, it creates more welcoming and accessible environments for everyone. Balham Library, Wandsworth share their experience of being a dementia friendly venue here Balham Library's blog post
Finding a dementia‑friendly venue
You can find an accredited dementia‑friendly cultural space near you by visiting dementia friendly venue map.
You can also find local dementia‑friendly services through Alzheimer’s Society’s Find support near you | Alzheimer's Society, including social groups, community activities, advocacy, guidance and practical support.
Why visit a dementia‑friendly cultural space?
- It offers positive shared experiences that can strengthen relationships.
- Creative activities can spark memories and moments of joy.
- Sessions often help people feel calmer and more settled.
- Art and creativity help people express themselves, especially when communication is harder.
- Simple creative tasks support focus and coordination.
- Group activities reduce loneliness and bring people together.
- Engaging with culture; music, theatre, art and museums has long‑term benefits for wellbeing, confidence and even resilience.
Routes to support
Support is available both in person and online if you are:
- caring for someone with dementia
- noticing early signs yourself
- recently diagnosed or living with dementia
Everyone’s situation is different, and the type of support needed will vary. Speaking to your GP, visiting a local dementia‑friendly group, or using trusted sources like the Alzheimer’s Society website Alzheimer's Society can help you find the right support at the right time.