Meet The Team

CLARA HEBBLETHWAITE
Founder & Organisation Manager

Fluent in French and Spanish, Clara has worked in many worlds, from teaching languages in secondary schools to organising expeditions abroad. ​She set up The Dementia Experience in 2024, ​having felt isolated by her own mother's dementia. Clara has an upbeat, proactive, and driven approach, she thrives on the challenge of creating positive change.​ Her commitment is to inspire and empower others by providing essential information and support, helping families feel more confident and in control as they navigate their unique dementia journeys.

JENNA NEWHAM
Director

Jenna is an Events & PR professional with extensive experience in the marketing industry. Known for her creativity and enthusiasm, Jenna brings a wealth of expertise to The Dementia Experience. Having personally witnessed her mother’s journey with dementia, Jenna is deeply committed to offering support and guidance to others facing similar challenges. 

CAROLINE CAREY
Director

Caroline is a Fundraising professional with over 15 years experience raising money for a broad range of charities, supporting children and young people, physical and mental health and access to the arts. Passionate about music, she’s also been a trustee of a London based music charity for over a decade. Known for building relationships and having excellent organisation skills, Caroline will bring her extensive charitable experience to the board, ensuring the work of The Dementia Experience can reach all those in need of support and guidance, through the most challenging of times. 

 ANNE BURDON
​​Director

Following in the footsteps of her parents, Anne has had a fulfilling career in Education as an early years practitioner. In the aftermath of her mother's diagnosis of dementia, Anne felt overwhelmed and uncertain and it was this personal experience that has driven her to want to reduce those same feelings for others.
​She offers much-needed support and guidance to all at our Hug in a Mug events. With her warm, level-headed, and empathetic approach, she is committed
​to making a positive impact.

The Dementia Experience Event Coordinators

SARAH CALLER

Sarah runs WRAP Dementia Day Centre and The Monday Gang in Hawkhurst, supporting people living with dementia to enjoy meaningful, enjoyable days. With a background as an Occupational Therapist and experience at the Alzheimer’s Society, her work at WRAP is guided by a strong belief in seeing each person as an individual. Sarah is committed to helping people live with dignity, understanding, fun, and a sense of normality.

EDITH TANKUS

Edith is a theatre artist, yoga teacher and creative movement practitioner with a passion for fostering creative connection in later life. She leads our Tea Club and Joy in Motion sessions, bringing joy, music, theatre, and meaning into each space she creates.
Edith’s work is rooted in warmth, wit, and deep empathy, supporting people to move, express themselves, and connect in ways that feel playful and affirming.

CARLA SMITH

Carla is the founder and leader of The Rhythm of Life Choir, a welcoming community where people of all ages and abilities come together through song. With a background in music and a passion for connection and wellbeing, she leads joyful Phoenix Choir sessions featuring musical theatre, gospel, and popular songs. Carla believes deeply in the power of music to bring people together, lift spirits, and help everyone feel valued and included.

Could this be you?

Join Us as a Hummingbird Volunteer
Volunteer with The Dementia Experience and become one of our treasured "Hummingbirds".
Make a valuable contribution to your local community and have fun at the same time.

How our Hummingbirds help:

•  Help host one of our regular clubs (setting up tables, serving drinks and making sure everyone is alright).
• Share your admin or organisational skills in our office
• Complete the volunteering element of your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE)

We’d love to hear from you. Please contact us to register your interest.