25 February 2020

CNWL welcomed former colleague, David Truswell to present this new book ‘Supporting People Living with Dementia from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic Communities’ last week.

David Truswell has over 40 years’ experience in health and social care mental health services and was a senior manager with the Trust for 15 years before leaving in 2016 to work as an independent health and care consultant and writer, focusing on dementia and its impact on Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

David introduced his new book

His book builds from community engagement work beginning in CNWL and his more recent work with community groups, clinicians and academics to produce a comprehensive overview of recent research and accounts from experience by carers and those living with dementia.

Q&A panel pictured with book

The afternoon event heard from other various speakers, including Dr Natalie Tobert PhD, a Medical Anthropologist, Education Director of Aethos Training.

Dr Tobert discussed the meaning of spirituality and dementia, the causes and effects of this within culture and religion in BAME communities.

Cheryl Jackson from Culture Dementia UK, shared her personal experiences of working with BAME families and how their aim is to educate and provide counselling and support to carers and people living with Dementia amongst the African/Caribbean community.

Cheryl Jackson (left) presents with David (right)

Culture Dementia UK is a national charity, visit their website for more information.

In a Q&A session the room heard from Linda Harrisosn who provided  a carer’s perspective and Ronald Amanze, a person living with Dementia.

If you would like to learn more about David’s book, you can find out more information on this website.