In early 2023 I was tasked with researching the current online landscape for anyone impacted by dementia. Over the course of the last 2 years the research developed into a feasibility study, a full ITT for the client to find a delivery partner and project managing the full website build.
1. Introduction
Objective:
- Identify gaps in dementia service delivery in Teesside.
- Develop a comprehensive digital platform to support those affected by dementia.
Approach:
- Combine qualitative research, feasibility studies, and UK-wide surveys.
- Create a user-centric website and planning tool.
2. Research Phase
Qualitative Research in Teesside
Methodology:
- Conducted semi-structured telephone interviews.
- Held a 60-minute focus group discussion.
Key Topics Explored:
- Current strengths and weaknesses in service delivery.
- Perceptions of dementia as an elderly issue vs. early onset.
- Barriers to stakeholder collaboration.
- Major challenges for people with dementia and their carers.
- Opportunities for charitable intervention.
Findings:
- Support must be tailored to individual needs.
- Social connectivity, workplace support, transport, and mental health care need improvement.
- A single reference point for immediate post-diagnosis support is missing.
- Carers feel isolated and overwhelmed.
3. Reports and Findings
Digital City Consultations & Feasibility Studies
Reports Commissioned:
- Qualitative findings on the dementia landscape.
- Online review of the current DAT website.
Feasibility Study (Braid):
- Workshop findings.
- Needs, Research, and Scope documents.
UK Wide Research
YouGov Survey (April 2024):
- Over 500 respondents.
- Identified fragmented information and the need for a centralised platform.
DementiaHelpUK Research (July 2024):
- 251 respondents.
- Highlighted demand for structured planning tools and clear support pathways.
4. Project Creation and Website Build
Planning and Development
Personas Created:
- Individuals with dementia.
- People who suspect they have dementia.
- Carers for family members.
- Professional carers.
Website Build Process:
- Completed a 3-month discovery phase.
- Selected Identify Digital as the supplier.
- Completed website build within 7 months.
Content Creation:
- Employed 3 freelance journalists.
- Developed content tailored to each persona.
Launch:
- Website launched in November 2024.
5. Branding and Accessibility
Branding:
- Developed a high-contrast colour palette.
- Tested branding against accessibility standards.
Usability:
- Website built to meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.
- Focus on clear navigation and minimal distractions.
6. Partnerships and Outreach
Key Partnership:
- Collaborated with DementiaHelpUK magazine for a 12-month sponsorship.
Benefits:
- Immediate access to their social media followers.
- Access to an established email list.
Ongoing Collaboration:
- Regular work with partner teams to enhance outreach.
7. Conclusion
Research Impact:
- Identified critical gaps in dementia support and service delivery.
- Validated the need for a centralised, digital solution.
Project Success:
- Comprehensive research informed a robust digital platform.
- Successful website build, effective content strategy, and strategic partnerships.
Next Steps:
- Continue refining the planning tool.
- Expand content and community engagement.
- Leverage partnerships for sustained outreach.
- DementiaNet is now positioned as a key player in dementia support, providing tailored, accessible, and actionable resources to improve the lives of those affected by dementia.
See DementiaNet