Dementia friendlycity pledged

Mayor Brenda Stevenson (centre) at the launch of the OId Library Trust's Derry Engaging and Empowering Dementia (DEED) project at the Guildhall.

Guest speaker Claire Keatinge, Commission for Older People, also praised the initiative for shining a light on one of society’s hidden issues.

The packed event in the Londonderry Guildhall was attended by representatives of the community, voluntary, statutory and business sectors as well as locally elected representatives, families, carers and people with dementia.

Mayor Stevenson commended the Old Library Trust for its initiative in highlighting dementia as a condition that impacts on families throughout our society.

She said Derry City Council would play a leading role in making Londonderry a “Dementia friendly city” and gave a personal pledge to become a dementia friend herself.

Ms Keatinge said small changes make the biggest difference to people living with dementia.

Patience and compassion are skills that can make life much more fulfilling for the person with dementia and their families.

“In a society that protects its most vulnerable people, everybody else will be ok,” she said.

DEED is working in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society to deliver dementia friendly community workshops which are available to all organisations. Open sessions are available for individuals who would like to find out on how to communicate with and support someone with dementia.

To take part or for more information please contact Sabrina or Una 02871373870 or by email [email protected]