Pendle News Room

Organised by Pendle Dementia Action Alliance, the Awareness Day which was held at the ACE Centre in Nelson on 17th May, attracted more than 120 people.

As well as raising awareness about dementia and the high-quality specialist services available in the borough, it helped to tackle the stigma that’s often associated with dementia.

Throughout the day there were talks by leading dementia specialists, one-hour Dementia Friends information sessions and activities aimed at those with dementia, as well as advice and information stands from a range of organisations.

Paul Gauntlett, Pendle’s Dementia Action Alliance Chair, said: “The Alliance is all about making it easier for people to access the help and support they need.

“And we were delighted to see so many people at our first event.

“Patsy Pope, dementia specialist and advocate for the elderly, was a particularly powerful speaker.

“Some attendees commented that they’d learnt far more from her in one hour than the last five years of living with dementia.”

The Alliance wants to make sure that those who work during the day can also make their events and get the help and support they need.

A second event will be held in Colne in September between 6 and 8pm. The venue is yet to be agreed.

A fantastic directory which sets out the services and support available to people with dementia, or caring for someone with dementia in Pendle, has now been launched.

E-mail pendledaa@gmail.com to request a copy or for more information about the work of Pendle Dementia Action Alliance.