North Ayrshire’s first ever Dementia Connect event was held last month, shining a spotlight on dementia support.
The event was a chance to bring together those living with dementia, their families and carers to provide feedback on services, learn more about the work being done at a local and national level around dementia care, and to find out more about the support available.
Around 80 people from a wide range of ages attended the free event on Wednesday 13 November at the Volunteer Rooms in Irvine.
It was organised by NAHSCP, NHS Ayrshire & Arran, Ayrshire Independent Living Network (AILN), Alzheimer Scotland and North Ayrshire Carers Gateway.
Guest speaker Professor Elaine Hunter, National AHP Consultant for Alzheimer Scotland, came along to give an overview of the national dementia strategy ‘Everyone’s Story’, which you can read more about on the Scottish Government website.
Attendees also heard from Susan Holland, NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Nurse Consultant for Dementia, who spoke about what is being done locally.
The event then saw three rounds of conversations that everyone could take part in, with themes based on the outcomes of the national strategy:
- Brain health, diagnosis and post-diagnostic support
- Resilient communities and challenging stigma
- Workforce
Another activity, ‘Walk in My Shoes’, highlighted the every-day challenges encountered by individuals living with dementia, as well as the many issues faced by those living with or caring for someone with the condition.
As well as enjoying afternoon tea and entertainment from the Ayrshire Ukelele Clan, those attending the event could also chat to representatives from a wide range of local and national support services at the marketplace stalls, with these groups also taking part in the conversations on the day.
The event was a great success. Well done to everyone involved in organising this extremely worthwhile event.
Organisations providing signposting and information included:
- Alzheimer Scotland
- Dementia Friendly Largs
- Ayrshire Independent Living Network (AILN)
- North Ayrshire Carers Gateway
- University of the West of Scotland Carers Academy
- Dementia Arts Trust
- Anam Cara
- North Ayrshire Dementia Support Team
- NHS Post-Diagnostic Support Team
- NHS Health at Home Team
- North Ayrshire Libraries
- North Ayrshire Community Link Worker Service
- Police Scotland
- KA Leisure
For more information on dementia support, visit the North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership website.
“I felt like I was with like-minded people who understand the challenges I face, I’m feeling more positive about the future and dealing with what is to come, and the help available.”Dementia Connects event participant