How groups can get involved

Do you play golf or bowls? Enjoy watching football, going to the theatre or singing in the local choir?

People with dementia enjoy all these things too, and all the more so if the groups and organisations that surround them are aware of their needs.

If you are involved in a club, community group or organisation of any size, you can request a free Understanding Dementia session for your members. We have run sessions for Brownies and Guides, women's groups, parish councils, churches, arts organisations, Rotary, Lions and many more.

Most people are affected by dementia in some way, either directly in their family or through friends or acquaintances. Finding out more together in a group is a good way to share experiences, whether similar or different.

Trainer Annie Clayton with a group of six Understanding Dementia champions holding 'I understand more' cards

Why become dementia friendly

35%

Of people living with dementia leave their homes just once a week

10%

Of people living with dementia leave their homes just once a month

Need a stat here

xxx

"Just a quick email to thank you for delivering the Dementia session at Devizes Library earlier this week. The team gave very positive feedback and found the information very interesting and enlightening. They all feel they now have a greater understanding of dementia and how they can support customers in the library."

Attendee Understanding Dementia

Why become dementia friendly?

We know that people living with dementia and their carers can feel isolated in their communities. Old friends and acquaintances may fall away following a diagnosis as people feel embarrassed about saying and doing the 'wrong thing'. People may lose confidence to the point where they struggle with activities that most take for granted like shopping, going to the bank or having their hair done. It doesn't mean they can't do these things, just that they may need extra support and understanding to carry on leading an active and independent life for as long as possible.

Two ladies stand together in a kitchen, one is wearing a pink stripy top and glasses, the other a blue top and an apron with glasses on her head. They are both smiling at the camera