A PROJECT to ensure Middlesbrough is dementia friendly is launched in the town next week.
The initiative aims to ensure people across the town are able to help those with the condition lead active and fulfilling lives.
The Dementia Friendly Middlesbrough Project has been developed by local dementia charity Cleveland Alzheimer’s Residential Centre Limited (Clevearc) in partnership with South Tees Clinical Commissioning Group.
The project will be launched next Wednesday (November 4) at the Central Library when people affected by dementia and their carers will discuss how best to develop Middlesbrough as a dementia friendly community.
Middlesbrough Council staff will receive Dementia Friends training to help them become dementia friendly champions.
The event will also be an opportunity to find out more about how parents, carers and professionals can make their communities more dementia friendly.
Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd said: “Dementia is one of the biggest social and economic challenges facing us, not just in Middlesbrough but across the UK.
“Dementia could affect any of us directly or indirectly at any time, so it’s more important than ever that people from all walks of life across the town work together to support those with the condition.
“It can be a frightening diagnosis and those involved can feel helpless, but with the right care and support, sufferers can continue to lead happy and fulfilled lives within their communities.
“The Dementia Friendly Middlesbrough Project therefore has a vital role to play in bringing people together to learn from one another and create a supportive and inclusive environment.”
Attendance at Wednesday’s event is free but places are limited – contact Project Co-ordinator Iris Jenkins on 01642 611110 or by email at ijenkins@clevearc.com to register a place.