THE final podcast in a series by The Carers’ Centre’s tells the dementia journey as seen by someone caring for a loved one with the condition.

Produced in collaboration with ReMind UK and Dorothy House Hospice Care, the podcasts draw on real-life experiences, complemented with conversation between staff and volunteers.

Released to coincide with Dementia Action Week May 18 to 24, the last episode features unpaid carer, Lynda, describing life without Brian, following his passing at a care home in late 2025.

“It’s very difficult to put into words, but the journey, from start to finish, was horrific… losing the person you know and love, day by day is very difficult to come to terms with,” expresses Lynda in the podcast.

Alex Hurley and Jenny Theed run Dementia Cafés for The Carers’ Centre; they form part of the life-changing suite of support services for unpaid carers. Jenny has worked in the care service for more than 43 years and is vice-chair of The Carers’ Centre. Alex Hurley worked as nurse in the community for 25 years.

“Lynda’s story is significant, not because it’s unusual, more because it highlights the challenging journey that thousands of people are on when looking after a loved one with dementia,” said Jenny.

“The Dementia Cafes have proved invaluable, as they provide carers with a safe space to share their experiences and to explore ways of coping with the group members.

“This enables them to continue to provide their vital role to their loved ones, day in and day out.”

Jenny and Alex are joined in the podcasts by Melissa Hillier, chief exec of ReMind UK, and Esther Mackillican, an admiral nurse from Dorothy House Hospice Care, who speaks on the penultimate episode about end of life care.

The podcasts and more information on dementia support can be found at banescarerscentre.org.uk/dementia-support