Dementia Action Alliance

There is currently a lot of discussion about Dementia Action Alliance and Dementia Friendly Communities. Your business may already be part of one, but if it isn’t, here is a short guide to what they both are and how you can get involved.

A Local Dementia Action Alliance (LDAA) is a structure for creating a dementia-friendly community (DFC) and is a group of people who have come together to create a DFC. A Local Alliance can be established at any level, be it a village, city, county or even a region. They can overlap geographically and member organisations are encouraged to participate in more than one community.

To start setting up an LDAA you should first identify other businesses, groups, and organisations which may wish to be involved. These could include the local Chemist, library, police, doctors surgery, local shops and cafes, and other care providers. A steering group should be formed to identify the steps required to become a Dementia Friendly Community, such as identifying safe places where people who are confused can be taken until help can arrive. Publicise what you are planning to do – other people may come forward to support you! Look at other groups around you and learn from what they have done. And ask for sponsorship – companies like Albert Goodman are often willing to support these worthwhile causes.

You can find more information and helpful tips at www.dementiaaction.org.uk