Alzheimer’s Society’s Announces Finalists For Dementia Hero Media Awards 2021
Broadcast, print and online journalists across the UK are being recognised for their remarkable efforts to make life better for people with dementia, by Alzheimer’s Society in the charity’s Dementia Hero Media Awards 2021.
The Dementia Hero Media Awards have been reinstated for 2021 to celebrate media professionals who portray and report on dementia in an accurate and sensitive way, helping to highlight issues and tackle misconceptions. With misunderstandings around dementia continuing to contribute to the stigma and isolation many people feel, their work makes an outstanding contribution towards improving the lives of the 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK. People with dementia and their families have been worst hit by the pandemic, with the highest number of deaths from Covid-19 and the knock-on effects of lockdown leading to many more rapidly deteriorating from isolation, reduced health and social care services and restricted care home visits for over a year. Media has played a vital part in raising awareness of the impact of the pandemic on vulnerable people with dementia – their work has never been more important.
This year there are four Dementia Hero Media Awards – National Print/Online Journalism, National Broadcast Journalism and Regional Print/Online Journalism and Regional Broadcast Journalism. The Media Awards are part of the wider Dementia Hero Awards 2021, which seek to recognise individuals, groups and organisations who did outstanding things to support people affected by dementia throughout the pandemic. The awards will cover the inspirational achievements of those who care for people with dementia, those finding innovative solutions in research, as well as the campaigners and media fighting for the rights of people with dementia.
The Dementia Hero Awards will be presented by Richard Madeley, a total of 15 awards covering everything from campaigning, innovation, research, and fundraising. The Dementia Hero Media Awards are being presented by Richard’s wife Judy Finnegan.
“This has been a shocking year for people affected by dementia, worst hit by coronavirus. Never have they needed support more, and it’s been incredible to see so many journalists working tirelessly to convey the reality of people with dementia’s experiences.
“The media have an absolutely vital role in ensuring society’s most vulnerable voices are heard, influencing decision-makers and attitudes towards dementia. It’s been amazing to see the range and quality of media entries submitted this year, all of which have played their part in supporting those affected, helping campaign for change.”
The awards ceremony will take place online on Thursday 20 May at 7pm (the time is subject to change) during Dementia Action Week 2021. If you would like to join us at the virtual awards ceremony (sponsored by Tunstall Healthcare) register here. The registration deadline is 13 May 2021 so make sure you secure your place today! Once registered we will keep you up to date on how to access the awards ceremony virtually.
