Thanking our departing trustees Fiona McIntosh and Helen Dutta

(L-R: Fiona McIntosh, Helen Dutta and Maureen Hall)

At our AGM last month we said farewell to two of our trustees who have been with us for the past 5+ years.

Fiona McIntosh has retired from the Board after serving seven years as a trustee. A former professional violinist and orchestral manager, Fiona brought many different skills to the Board and was most recently the Chair of our Risk Committee, as well as a member of our People Committee. Before becoming a trustee Fiona also volunteered for many years as a North West England volunteer ambassador, and has always been actively involved in fundraising and supporting at events.

Helen Dutta has  been a trustee since 2018 and was most recently the Chair of our People Committee. She also played a key role in helping us to shape our current safeguarding framework and was our first designated trustee lead on Safeguarding. Helen is now pursuing alternative career interests in executive coaching.

“We wish both Fiona and Helen well as they step down from the board. Fiona has agreed to remain an active supporter on an informal basis, and we look forward to continuing  to benefit from her knowledge and enthusiasm for many years to come.

The Board has greatly benefitted from Helen’s legal expertise together with her understanding of corporate governance and HR over the past five years. As a trained musician, she continues to have a passion for our cause and will remain a valued supporter.”

Maureen Hall, Chair of Trustees

World Alzheimer’s Month: Lifting spirits in Cumbria

Our musician Andy McKay has been visiting wards and care homes across Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria, where we have been able to share 29 hours of live music between September 2025 and May 2026. One of the spaces Andy visited is the Ramsey Unit at Furness General Hospital, an assessment unit for patients with organic illnesses such as dementia.

Read our latest annual report

In 2025/26 we focused on setting the right note for the future. Despite a challenging landscape, we are proud of what we have been able to achieve with your support.

An unforgettable evening of wine, music and song

Join us on Thursday 24 September at the historic St James Garlickhythe Church in central London for a very special evening of live music. Guests will enjoy wine and canapés from 6:30pm, with music starting at 7:30pm until around 9:20pm.