Kate Smith
Group Leader/Centre Manager - Carterton & Freeland
Kate’s previous work has included working with children with severe learning and physical disabilities, as well as working for over twenty years within the optical industry.
For a short time, Kate also worked for a mobility and rehabilitation company.
“The best part of all of these different jobs,” Kate says, “were the people I met and the relationships I built with them and their families.”
The one part of her role at Dementia Active Kate is looking forward to, is, offering activities that are interesting, vibrant and fun.
Kate says, “At the end of the activity sessions, for our members to say they have had a ‘good day' is what I aim for.”
Outside of work Kate loves reading, gardening and walking especially in the Lake District.
Lee Bass
Session Assistant, Transport & Maintenance - Carterton & Freeland
Lee worked in the Plastic Industry for many years and as a Maintenance Site Technician for a Holiday and Office Complex.
The thing Lee enjoyed the most about his previous rolls was interacting with people, teaching them new things and sorting out problems for them.
So joining Dementia Active was a way of fulfilling that on a daily basis.
Lee says " Meeting the members and their families is enjoyable and building relationships with both adds to a rewarding experience"
Outside of work Lee enjoys Walking, gardening and playing Music.
Teresa Iwasiuk
Session Assistant & Food Prep Carterton & Freeland
Teresa has been managing the Carterton Food Angels, a food bank, since 2020 and also initiated a warm hub in 2022. Sadly, Teresa's father passed away due to dementia.
Teresa says, “helping to support people with dementia by working at Dementia Active is so rewarding.”
Dementia is an illness that can lead to isolation from former friends. The importance of spending time with others who understand this sense of isolation cannot be underestimated.
Our goal is to establish a community where people do not feel the need to apologise or feel uncomfortable about their current capabilities compared to the past. Conversation is encouraged both socially, particularly when people arrive and during lunch, and in more structured reminiscence sessions. Group activities provide opportunities for engagement.
The overall benefits include increased energy levels and improved cognition.
Richard Barnes -
Session Assistant & Transport - Carterton & Freeland
Since 2020, Richard has been actively involved in supporting the local community through his work alongside Teresa at Carterton Food Angels. Through this role, he has developed a strong sense of compassion and a commitment to helping others, particularly those who may be vulnerable or in need of additional support.
Richard is now keen to extend that same dedication to Dementia Active in Carterton. As his schedule allows, he looks forward to supporting members, contributing to sessions, and helping to create a warm, welcoming environment for everyone involved. His approachable nature and willingness to help make him a valued addition to the team and the wider community.
Fiona Vaughan - Volunteer
Fiona became involved with the group through supporting her father, whom she cared for during the final eleven months of his life following his diagnosis with dementia. During that time, the group provided meaningful support, offering her father enjoyment and connection, while also giving Fiona valuable moments of respite.
Following her father’s passing, Fiona was keen to give something back in recognition of the positive impact the group had on them both. Her experience as a carer brings empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to support others facing similar journeys.
Kenneth Harsham - Volunteer
Ken is 70 years old and lives with his wife. He is a proud father to one son and a grandfather to four grandchildren, with whom he enjoys spending time. Ken is local to the Carterton Dementia Active group and values being part of his community.
He has a strong work ethic, developed over a varied and dedicated career. Ken spent 18 years working in factory roles, gaining practical skills and experience, before moving on to a 20-year career at Kidlington Detention Centre. He later spent a further two years working in transport, adding to his breadth of experience.
Ken brings with him a lifetime of knowledge, resilience, and a down-to-earth approach, and enjoys staying connected with others through the Dementia Active community.
Georgina Iwasiuk - Volunteer
Georgina Iwasiuk - Volunteer
Georgina has developed a strong foundation in supporting people through movement and creative engagement. After graduating from university, she spent time in Bournemouth where she contributed to a Dance and Dementia course funded by the local council, helping to deliver inclusive, engaging sessions for those living with cognitive conditions.
She has since completed specialist training as a Parkinson’s dance instructor, equipping her with the skills to safely and effectively support individuals living with Parkinson’s as well as dementia. Alongside her training, Georgina has dedicated time to volunteering, further strengthening her understanding of the needs of both participants and their families.
With three years of hands-on experience, Georgina brings energy, empathy, and a person-centred approach to her work. She is now focused on introducing Dementia Active to the community, using her expertise to create welcoming, stimulating environments where people can stay active, connected, and supported.
Heather Haymes
Centre Manager - Launton
Heather joined Dementia Active Shortly after attending a fundraiser for the charity. Seeing first hand what they do, Heather knew she wanted to be a part of the story.
With Heather’s father's help, the pair cared for her mum who was diagnosed with early onset Dementia at the age of 58.
Heather worked in Property management for 10 years helping tenants & landlords alike.
It was with a very heavy heart she finished in this career, but knew helping people with dementia was more important. The heartwarming affect that Dementia Active had on its members overwhelmed Heather, knowing if her mum had attended it would have made her parents life more bearable.
Since losing mum to dementia Heather has taken part in many fundraising activities including her biggest achievement, completing the London Halloween Walk where she endured a harrowing 26 miles on foot.
Heather says, “My favourite thing in life are my dogs! Second to that is the support I can give to the members at Dementia Active”.
