Loving senior couple seen through glass window

The Wider View

The Wider View – Our Dementia Strategy 2026–2029

At Friends of the Elderly, we believe good dementia care starts with seeing the person, not just the diagnosis.

Dementia affects millions of people, but no two experiences are the same. That is why our dementia strategy is called The Wider View.

Once you have met one person with dementia, you have only met one person with dementia.

This strategy sets out how we will continue to deliver thoughtful, evidence-based care that protects dignity, identity and connection, while working in partnership with families, residents and service users.

What we mean by The Wider View

In care settings, people living with dementia can sometimes lose independence through over-caring , when things are done for them rather than with them.

The Wider View challenges that. It asks us to look beyond the condition and focus on the whole person: their strengths, relationships, history and preferences.
Good dementia care is not about removing risk at all costs. It is about supporting people to live well.

Our commitments

Our approach is built around four clear commitments:

A skilled, confident workforce

Investing in training, learning and leadership so staff are supported to deliver high-quality dementia care.

A rights-based care culture

Respecting individuality, choice and autonomy, and challenging assumptions that can limit dignity.

Evidence-based care and improvement

Focusing on what genuinely improves quality of life, and continuously learning from experience and feedback.

Working in partnership

Treating families, friends and professionals as equal partners throughout the dementia journey.

Looking ahead

The Wider View is a living strategy. It will continue to evolve as we learn, listen and respond.

Our aim is simple: to create environments where people living with dementia are seen, heard and supported to live with dignity, every day.

Friends of the Elderly, registered charity in England and Wales (no 226064); registered company in England and Wales (no 133850).
Registered office The Bradbury Centre, Smiles Place, Woking, Surrey, GU22 8BJ. A company limited by guarantee.