In Seahouses this March, a new community-led Dementia Disco is set to launch. This will offer people living with dementia, their families and carers a relaxed, welcoming space to come together through music and dance.
The monthly event, which will run on the first Saturday of each month from 5pm to 7pm, is part of a growing national initiative led by registered charity Dementia Disco. This is designed to feel more like a night out than a support group; the discos use familiar music, shared food, and an informal social setting to help people reconnect with others and rebuild confidence.
The inspiration for Dementia Disco
Founded in 2019 by brother and sister Nick Shaw and Kate Darby with friend Phillipa Bostock, it was inspired by Kate’s father who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at the age of 66. Kate saw first-hand how music helped spark moments of joy, recognition and connection. She said:
“We wanted to create a space where people living with dementia, particularly younger people, could feel included and free to enjoy themselves with their families. It’s about laughter, movement and being together, not labels.”
This article is based on a media release from Dementia Disco.
How Dementia Disco came to Seahouses
The Seahouses arm of Dementia Disco is being supported by local resident and dementia inclusion expert Dr Carol Sargent, who has recently moved to the area and wanted to bring something different to the local community. Carol explained:
“Music and movement create a way for people to connect when words become harder. You put a piece of music on and people just dance. It cuts through everything. You often can’t tell who has dementia and who doesn’t, and that’s incredibly powerful.”
Unlike many dementia support activities, Dementia Disco events take place at weekends and are deliberately intergenerational, making them accessible for families, children and working carers.
“This is about doing something normal,” Carol added. “You can sit and watch, have a chat, dance if you want to, or just enjoy being around other people. It’s not about being told what to do or how to behave. It’s about feeling comfortable enough to be yourself.”
Carol recently moved to Seahouses and is keen to bring something meaningful to her new hometown. Through her work in dementia-inclusive tourism and hospitality, she knows first-hand how music, movement and shared experiences can help people living with dementia feel more confident and connected. After discovering Dementia Disco, Carol immediately recognised the potential benefits for the local community and for families visiting the area.
“This felt like something that would genuinely work here,” she said. “Seahouses is both a strong local community and a popular holiday destination. Dementia Disco brings people together in a way that feels normal, welcoming and inclusive, whether you live locally or are visiting with a loved one.”
Once a month at Seahouses Social Club
Each event, held on the first Saturday of each month (5pm – 7pm) at Seahouses Social Club on Main Street, is free to attend, includes a free meal, and is open to anyone. Small fundraising raffles help to cover ongoing costs.
Carol is now keen to hear from anyone interested in attending, volunteering, or finding out more. She said:
“We’re looking for people of all ages who enjoy being around others and want to be part of something positive. You don’t need experience, just a willingness to get involved.”
This inspiring organisation is about friendship, conversation and community spirit. Anyone interested in volunteering, attending the disco, or inviting Carol to speak to a local group, please do get in touch here: Dementia Disco Volunteer Form.
