Dementia Research UK

Dementia Research UK funds research into the nature, causes, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and care of all forms of dementia, including young-onset, inherited, and rare types. Thematic priorities include diagnosis and treatment advancements, brain health studies, therapeutic interventions, and translating findings into scalable care models. They support clinical trials, non-drug interventions, and practical applications that directly improve wellbeing. Their geographic scope covers the whole of the UK, from England to Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. The charity also funds partnerships with academic institutions and innovative initiatives that bridge research and real-world care.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities and academic institutions with a strong track record in dementia research. There are no income thresholds, so both small initiatives and established centres are welcome. The charity prioritises organisations that are patient-informed and mission-aligned, driving impactful dementia innovations. Beneficiaries include people with all forms of dementia, their carers, and families. No religious restrictions apply.

The charity does not fund core costs, unrestricted support, or emergency relief. It also excludes projects that fall outside its thematic priorities of dementia research, clinical trials, and non-drug interventions.

Dementia Research UK works by invitation only, proactively seeking out mission-aligned organisations through its advisor network. They fund project-specific activities, including clinical trials and practical applications, rather than core costs. The charity supports both small initiatives and established centres, favouring partnerships that bridge academic research and real-world care.