Dementia Associates build connections with The Lowry

Recognising the value of lived experience, The Lowry deliberately sought opportunities to engage directly with people living with dementia. Through Emma Smith from Empowered Conversations, a connection was made between The Lowry and our Dementia Associates, bringing the groups together to share ideas, experiences, and expertise.

The collaboration began with an initial visit to The Lowry, where Dementia Associates toured the Lowry Collection and experienced the immersive 360° exhibition. Following the tour, the group took part in open and honest conversations about their experiences of attending cultural venues and what helps people living with dementia feel welcomed, supported, and included. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for Dementia Associates to share their lived experience, while The Lowry team listened carefully to their insights, observations, and recommendations.

A follow-up visit demonstrated the true spirit of co-production. Dementia Associates were invited back to revisit both the Lowry Collection and the 360° experience, while learning about the changes and developments that had been made in response to the feedback shared during the initial session. This was a powerful example of co-production in action, highlighting how the voices of people living with dementia had directly informed the development of The Lowry's dementia-inclusive offer. For participants, it was both rewarding and encouraging to see their contributions valued and translated into meaningful change, reinforcing the importance of involving people with lived experience in shaping accessible and welcoming cultural environments.

What started as a consultation has developed into a valued and ongoing relationship. The partnership has demonstrated the mutual benefits that arise when organisations work alongside people with lived experience as equal partners. The Lowry has gained invaluable insight to help shape a more inclusive visitor experience, while our Dementia Associates have enjoyed the opportunity to influence practice, build new relationships, and contribute to positive change within the cultural sector.

This partnership is a wonderful testament to the power of co-production. By bringing together professional expertise and lived experience, meaningful change has been achieved, lasting connections have been formed, and everyone involved has benefited from the journey.

Mali Pocsai, Community Engagement Officer at the Institute for Dementia and Ageing, said: "This project demonstrates the power of genuinely listening to people living with dementia. The changes made by The Lowry were relatively small, but the impact on people's confidence and enjoyment was significant. The film also highlights the many ways our Dementia Associates continue to influence education, research and community initiatives across Greater Manchester."

The collaboration reflects the University of Salford's commitment to co-production and civic engagement, ensuring that people with lived experience are not only consulted but actively involved in shaping services, spaces and opportunities within the wider community.