Halesowen: Let’s talk about dementia this May
On Wednesday 18th May and Friday 20th May 2022, staff from Dudley Integrated Health and Care NHS Trust will be attending Halesowen town centre to help spread awareness about Dementia. Healthcare professionals, which include Dementia and Frailty Link Workers, will be on hand to give expert feedback and signpost people to important services in the local area that could help those affected by the disease.
The stand will be available for two days in total during this year’s Dementia Action Week, which will highlight the importance of diagnosis for people who may have symptoms of the condition and people who may be waiting for a diagnosis. Dementia Action Week is the longest running awareness campaign that takes place each year in the UK.
With more than half of the UK public knowing someone who has been diagnosed with the condition, and globally the number of people living with dementia on the increase, events like these provide the local community with the opportunity to learn more about the services available, whilst also raising the profile of the condition.
Dr Gillian Love, Associate Non-Executive Director, Dudley Integrated Health and Care NHS Trust and Clinical Director of Halesowen Primary Care Network, had this to say:
“It is important for us to reach out and engage with the community as much as possible. This year’s Dementia Action Week focuses on the theme of diagnosis and that is what we want to discuss.
“Encouraging people to talk to us and learn about the services and treatments available is most important - we want the community of Halesowen to know that we are here to support them.
“With the number of people in the UK living with dementia forecast to rise to 2 million by 2050, it’s certainly something we should all be talking more about.”
Lisa Harland, Dementia and Frailty Link Worker at Dudley Integrated Health and Care NHS Trust said:
“There are a lot of people out there who have memory problems without realising it. We have an ageing population, and we want residents to access the support that is available and reduce the stigma surrounding dementia.
“If you, or you think someone you know might benefit from support or advice, please come and visit us on either the 18th or the 20th May. Friendly faces will be on hand for a chat which could really make a difference to someone’s life.”
When: Wednesday 18th May, or Friday 20th May 2022
Time: 10am-3pm
Where: Dementia Friendly Bench, Hagley Street (near Wilko’s)
