Harold Stephens Wins Small Business Category at the Bristol Dementia Action Alliance Awards
When a community understands dementia, it becomes a kinder, more connected place for everyone. Small changes - a bit more patience, clearer communication, a welcoming environment - can make an enormous difference to the lives of people living with dementia and those who care for them.
We’ve seen first-hand how awareness and empathy can transform everyday interactions. Whether it’s helping clients plan for later life, supporting a family navigating care decisions, or simply taking the time to listen, we believe that understanding dementia helps us offer advice that’s not only practical, but genuinely compassionate.
That’s why we’re incredibly proud to have been named the winner of the Small Business Award at the Bristol Dementia Action Alliance (BDAA) Awards on Friday 10th October - recognition of our ongoing commitment to creating a dementia-friendly approach to financial advice and wider efforts in the community.
Making Later Life Advice More Accessible and Supportive
Financial planning can feel overwhelming at the best of times, even more so when dementia or caring responsibilities are part of the picture. Our aim has always been to make advice feel approachable, calm, and clear, giving people and their families the confidence to make important decisions in their own time.
We have BDAA to thank for the ongoing support provided that enables us to better serve people living with dementia and their carers.
Through initiatives like our free Later Life Hub drop-in sessions at the Later Life Hub at St Peter’s, we provide practical guidance on topics such as care fees, pensions, and estate planning, while signposting visitors to local sources of emotional and practical support. These sessions are designed to be inclusive and friendly - spaces where people can ask questions, explore options, and feel heard.
Beyond our advice work, we’re proud to play an active role in supporting community wellbeing. Our Harold Stephens Community Fund has helped local initiatives including The Footprints Group at Ebenezer Church, BRACE Dementia Research, BDAA’s Memory Cafes and Singing to Remember at Trinity Henleaze United Reformed Church. Our work with the Later Life Alliance, a group which includes BDAA, means we can continue to help offer opportunities for people to access the advice and support they need when they need it most.
Proud to Be Part of a Dementia-Friendly Bristol
Winning the BDAA Small Business Award means a great deal to our small team. It reflects our belief that being dementia-aware isn’t a box to tick, it’s a mindset that shapes how we serve, support, and connect with others.
It was fantastic to see so many organisations and individuals recognised at the awards and we’re honoured to be part of the growing network helping to make Bristol a dementia-friendly city. Well done to everyone!