Emma meets with Dementia Friends

September 11, 2013

Emma Lewell-Buck 19smallEarlier this week Emma met representatives from the Alzheimer’s Society in the Houses of Parliament, to support their Dementia Friends initiative for raising dementia awareness in the community.

Alzheimer’s Society are committed to spreading knowledge and understanding of dementia across the UK. A recent survey of people with dementia showed that over half feel they feel isolated, and a lack of education in local communities contributes to this problem.  The Dementia Friends initiative asks people of all ages to attend information sessions to learn more about those living with dementia. The scheme also encourages people to reach out to those living with dementia in their local area.

Last month Emma met with a local Alzheimer’s Support Group  in South Shields, which provides dementia cafes and personalised support for both sufferers and their carers. Emma has also agreed to become a Dementia Champion, and will attend training sessions later this year to become a part of this growing national support network.

Emma said: “This is an issue that means a lot to me, as a member of my family had dementia. This is a problem that is often hidden because sufferers are so isolated, and I commend the work of Dementia Friends and all those who volunteer by reaching out to vulnerable people in their communities. I cannot wait to start my own training and doing my part for people living with dementia in South Shields.”

To learn more about Dementia Friends and how you can get involved, visit the Dementia Friends website at www.dementiafriends.org.uk. If you would like to contact the Alzheimer’s Society in South Shields, call 0191 427 5443.

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