MORE than a hundred people from across Swindon took part in a special event in the town to mark this year’s Dementia Awareness Week.

Alzheimer’s Society staff and volunteers, with support from Zurich Community Trust, encouraged residents to confront dementia by taking part in the town’s first live outdoor Dementia Friend’s sessions on Thursday at Wharf Green.

Dementia Friends is an Alzheimer’s Society initiative that aims to help people understand what it might be like to live with dementia and turn that understanding into action. The charity aims to have four million Dementia Friends by 2020 and now residents in Swindon are playing their part.

Marco van-Tintelen, services manager for Alzheimer’s Society in Swindon said: “It was fantastic to have so many people dropping by and taking part in Dementia Friends sessions. Dementia Friends is about learning more about dementia and the small ways you can help. From telling friends about the Dementia Friends programme to visiting someone you know living with dementia, every action counts.

“There are estimated to be over 2,000 people living with dementia in Swindon. We had lots of interest from people watching the big screen or asking questions at our information stand. By openly talking about dementia we hope to tackle the many myths and misunderstandings about the condition and get across that life doesn’t end when dementia begins.

“The sooner you face up to dementia by coming to us for information and support, the sooner you can get the right treatment, support and advice to tackle it. Alzheimer’s Society is here for anyone affected by dementia and there are lots of ways we can help you. Call us on 01249 443469 or visit alzheimers.org.uk/DAW.”

Steve Grimmett, UK employee involvement manager, from Zurich Community Trust, said: "We were delighted to support Alzheimer’s Society in Swindon with their latest Dementia Friends event.

"The Zurich Community Trust has had a long history of working with charities supporting those with dementia and their families and carers and we were keen to support this event.

"It's so important that people are more aware of the condition and also who they can turn to for support and advice. Many Zurich employees have also become Dementia Friends - some of whom were helping out on the day.”

If you are interested in becoming a Dementia Friend go to www.dementiafriends.org.uk to find your nearest information session.