Locality Manager / Dementia Adviser – North
E-mail: katiesmok@dementiaoxfordshire.org.uk
Katie has worked in the care sector all of her working career in various care settings and was previously a Dementia Lead while working in a care home. She is a Dementia Friends Champion and has had training in ‘Contended Dementia’ and ‘Positive Approach to Care’. She also holds a Level 5 Diploma in Health and Social Care.
“Prior to becoming a Dementia Advisor, I worked for a domiciliary care organisation where I supported clients to remain living as independently as possible in their own homes. I helped to build strong, trusting relationships with clients and their families. I also took part in training our new recruits in dementia and developed dementia awareness sessions for clients, family members and the local community.
Dementia care is something I have been very involved in, both professionally and personally. It has helped to see where the need is, and Dementia Oxfordshire definitely fills that need by supporting both the person living with dementia and those who care for them.
With my role as a dementia adviser, I am able to continue my passion to support and empower those living with dementia and those who care for them. Working alongside partners and health professionals to achieve the best for our clients is something I strive to do daily. Spreading the word and increasing knowledge about dementia is also something I am really enthusiastic about – putting to bed the stigma surrounding the disease and helping others to understand and acknowledge what it’s really all about. If everyone involved in a single person’s dementia journey feels knowledgeable, confident and supported, then that person is going to have a much more positive and content experience.”
