Here’s how you can make your moves matter for dementia awareness

This Saturday, the steps of the iconic Stockport Pyramid will come alive with movement and music, all for a great cause.

At exactly noon on April 26th, dancers of all ages will gather to groove in unison as part of a bold and beautiful initiative to spotlight an issue that too often goes unnoticed: dementia diagnosis.

The event, organised by Dance Against Dementia: the activist arm of Stockport-based charity Dementia Disco, marks a pivotal moment in a 66.7-day dance-athon campaign.

Their goal will be to raise awareness and provoke national conversation following the quiet removal of the government’s 66.7% dementia diagnosis target from the NHS planning guidance for 2025.

“Dance with us so the government can no longer ignore dementia,” said campaign co-founder Kate Derby.

“Any kind of dancing counts—whether it’s a 10-second shimmy in your kitchen or a coordinated flash mob with us at Stockport Pyramid.

Saturday’s dance will be soundtracked by the music of Stockport’s own spoken word artist Antony Szmierek, and his awesome song about Stockport’s Pyramid. Check that out below.

“Anthony has been really supportive on social media – so thanks to him for being a great guy too.”

The dance moves were put together by Dementia Disco founder Phil, with everyone invited to take part.

Kate said: “ It’s a great opportunity to raise more awareness of this disco and get lots of people down and have some fun and obviously promote the charity at the same time.”

You can find out more on their facebook page here

From personal stories to public movement

Dementia Disco was born from deeply personal experiences. Kate, alongside fellow founders Nick and Phil, each had loved ones affected by dementia. For Kate and Nick, it was their dad—diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at just 66.

The support available was often outdated, fixated on 1940s singalongs that didn’t resonate with their dad’s love for 60s and 70s rock.

Phil’s gran Margaret developed vascular dementia in her 90s. The vibrant, independent woman who played piano and loved jigsaws slipped away far too quickly.

For all three founders, it felt like losing someone twice.

They noticed a glaring gap in dementia support for younger people, and a lack of opportunities for families to connect through joyful, shared experiences.

That’s when the idea of a disco—open on weekends, welcoming to all generations, and full of music that actually meant something—was born.

Their first event in Heaton Mersey exceeded all expectations. Over 40 people turned up, and from that point, the movement only grew.

Wrapping up the campaign with a special dance on May 26th

While the event at Stockport Pyramid this Saturday is an essential moment in the campaign, the grand finale will take place on Bank Holiday Monday, May 26th.

The final dance will follow a symbolic route from Stockport Road in Mosley—where Kate’s father was born—back to Edgeley Park, home of Stockport County FC.

The event aims to bring people together for one last celebration, marking the 66.7 days of dancing that have highlighted the urgent need for better dementia diagnosis and care.

More than just a boogie

Shaking up the system

But Dance Against Dementia is about more than parties: it’s about policy. The removal of the diagnosis target is alarming to campaigners and charities alike. Diagnosis is the first step in accessing support, and without it, many families are left in the dark.

“We’ve turned that 66.7% target into 66.7 days of dancing. It’s a joyful protest—but it’s serious.”

The dance at the Stockport Pyramid is a standout moment, with local connections adding extra meaning.

“We’re inviting people to join us outside the Pyramid at noon on Saturday. You don’t need to know the routine. Just show up, bring your energy, and dance.”

More than a boogie

At a Dementia Disco event, the playlist isn’t just background noise—it’s a bridge.

Attendees at their events are invited to contribute songs with personal meaning. Wedding first dances. Road trip anthems. Childhood favourites. The music acts as a catalyst for memory and conversation, rekindling the past and connecting generations in the present.

“It’s like a family wedding,” says Kate. “The atmosphere is electric. Everyone’s welcome, and nobody is defined by their diagnosis.”

The disco also offers vital respite for caregivers. By scheduling discos on weekends, carers can rest or take time for themselves, while a friend or relative brings their loved one to dance. It’s a lifeline as much as a lifter of spirits.

How to get involved with Dementia Disco

You can find our more about Dementia Disco’s awesome work by clicking here