A training session run by charity Dementia Friends has helped Luke Pollard MP’s team to be more considerate towards people living with dementia.

The session was led by Plymouth City Council’s Dementia Friendly City Coordinator, Claire Puckey. Claire talked through the various different types of dementia, and explained that many of our preconceptions about the illness are untrue. Dementia does not solely affect people over 65, it is not limited to loss of memory, and it does not cause an individual to lose their independence immediately. Instead it is a highly complex illness, which progresses in a way that is unique to each individual.

Being a Dementia Friend simply means learning more about dementia, putting yourself in the shoes of someone living with the condition, and turning your understanding into action. To find out more, visit the Dementia Friends website, which contains many helpful resources and links to book training sessions.

Next week is Dementia Action Week. Click here to view a list of activities and events taking place in Plymouth to improve awareness and understanding of dementia:

Luke and his team would like to thank Claire and everyone at Dementia Friends for taking the time to help us improve our understanding of this illness.