Jackie Pool
Jackie is a retired Occupational Therapist but still active as a specialist in dementia care as a campaigner for the disability rights of people living with dementia. She continues to be a co-investigator with the University of Exeter, Research into Ageing and Cognitive Health (REACH) programme into the effectiveness of Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy. Jackie is the developer of the reliable and valid PAL Instrument, author of the book “From Dementia to Rementia” and, a speaker at international dementia conferences.
Peter Middleton
Peter is active in national dementia initiatives, including the Alzheimer’s Society, Young Dementia Network, and Dementia Voice, helping shape projects and services. In 2023, his dedication was honoured when he was named a Coronation Volunteer Champion by the Royal Voluntary Service.
Locally, Peter volunteers at the Burton Latimer Heritage Centre, facilitates a dementia support group, and runs comedy workshops. He also contributes to research through Join Dementia Research, taking part in studies that aim to improve diagnosis and understanding.
Through his writing, volunteering, and public speaking, Peter continues to demonstrate resilience, inspire others, and make a meaningful impact in the dementia community.
Beth Britton MBE
Beth is a former carer to her father who had vascular dementia for 19 years. She is an expert content creator who won ‘Best Independent Voice on Older People’s Issues’ and is the author of D4Dementia, one of the foremost dementia blogs in the world. Beth also provides consultancy services to social care providers, including training and mentoring, and has worked with a variety of organisations including the Dept for Health and Social Care, CQC, PHE and NICE. Beth’s campaigning, including being a speaker and media spokesperson, centers around improving dementia care and support, the challenges in social care and issues facing family carers. Beth was the winner of Outstanding Contribution to Dementia Care at the 2024 Dementia Care Awards, and was made an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list 2025.
Beth has been described as offering ‘unparalleled insight’, demonstrating ‘knowledge, experience and expertise in dementia that is second-to-none’, having a ‘gifted ability to convey ideas and experiences’, being a ‘constant unyielding advocate of the intrinsic value and diversity of each individual living with dementia’, and possessing ‘personal experience, commitment and understanding that challenges us all to do better’.
