The University of Lincoln is taking a big part in a national initiative to raise awareness of dementia and the things we can all do it to make a difference to people living with this condition. On 22nd April 2015, student volunteers from the School of Psychology and the School of Nursing teamed up together to support a one-day conference at the Engine Shed. The event bought together over 150 people from local businesses and organisations to support the Demetria Friendly Communities campaign. At the conference we heard from patients and carers living with dementia about their real-world experiences, as well as finding out more about some of the latest technology which can be used to improve their daily lives.
Rachael Fothergill, from the School of Psychology, is a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Society and was on the Steering Group for the conference. Afterwards she said –
“Dementia is often overlooked but it was great to see local groups stepping up and getting involved, people may finally start getting some help. I have seen first-hand the effects of dementia and feel we need to do as much as possible to help people living with dementia live as full and independent lives as possible, as well as supporting the family and friends who care for them, who are often unsung heroes”.
Sally Cornforth, from the School of Nursing, is taking over from Rachael to carry on the work of the student dementia awareness group. She said “I am determined that as many students as possible involved as there are so many of us in Lincoln. We heard on the day about how some simple volunteering, like going for a walk with a person living with dementia, could make a huge difference to their lives.”
If you would like to join us or find out more information about the campaign then please contact Rachel Bromnick (rbromnick@lincoln.ac.uk)