1 Working towards making Brecon a Dementia Friendly community What it’s about, how to get involved and why Chair: Rhiannon Davies Tel:

2 The need for Dementia friendly communities Ageing society; part of life for an increasing number of families Public understanding of the condition is limited Everyday living can be a battle; leading to isolation and loneliness Better use of resources

3 What is a Dementia friendly community? Where people with dementia and their carers feel safe and respected and have a feeling of belonging in the community Supportive and inclusive in all areas of family and community life Improves ability of individuals with dementia to have a quality of life, remain independent and have choice and control over their lives Encourages people with dementia and their carers to seek early diagnosis, help and support, and gives them a voice to express their concerns and needs

4 What is required to create a Dementia friendly community? A change in attitudes and behaviours towards people who are seen as being ‘different’ A better awareness and understanding of dementia and the problems all those touched by it face Good communication, care, patience and kindness A social movement for change from the grass roots

5 What’s been happening in Brecon? Public presentation in June Recognised need; lot of enthusiasm Developed a community-led steering group with representation from carers, health and social care, community and voluntary organisations Developed a mission statement, strategic goals, an action plan and objectives Constituted in April as a not-for-profit group Official launch in June 2014

6 What’s been happening in here in Brecon Established a Dementia Action Alliance Dementia Champion training and promoting Dementia Friends sessions Liaising with a range of organisations. BBNPA one of the first to engage Setting up new initiatives Networking and sharing good practice – locally and nationally Officially recognised by the Alzheimer’s Society. The first in Wales!

Rise of the Golden Traveller Over 60 population-’golden traveller’ Forecast to reach 16 million in the UK by 2020 Accessible and respite tourism an increasing trend. Clear gap in the market Alleviate the pressure felt by families and carers 7

How to get involved Join the social movement…. Register a Commitment Join the local Dementia Action Alliance Become a Dementia friend 8

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