Mayor backs campaign to support dementia patients and carers

The Mayor and Mayoress of South Ribble joined local organisations in launching the South Ribble Dementia Community Connection (SRDCC), signaling a concerted effort to offer support for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers in the area. The event marked the transition from the Dementia Action Alliance to the newly formed SRDCC, emphasising a solid commitment to enhancing the quality of life for those affected by dementia.

The SRDCC, chaired by Anna-Marie Knipe from Birchall Blackburn Law, comprises a diverse coalition of individuals and organisations dedicated to improving the lives of people with dementia within South Ribble. Notable members include A Good Day, the Alzheimer's Society, Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service, Regenerage, Age UK Lancashire, NHS, Social Prescribers, as well as representatives from the community and voluntary sector, among others. Additionally, numerous South Ribble councillors actively participate in the alliance.

At the heart of the SRDCC's mission is the facilitation of collaboration among its members to identify and pursue key initiatives and priorities. Together, the alliance has committed to a collective approach focused on keeping members informed, providing them with essential support and training, and actively involving caregivers and individuals living with dementia in shaping future decisions.

Speaking at the launch, Mayor Chris Lomax expressed enthusiasm for the SRDCC's objectives, stating, "The establishment of the South Ribble Dementia Community Connection represents a crucial step forward in our collective efforts to support those affected by dementia in our community. With collaboration of local businesses and orgnisations, we can more effectively address the needs of dementia patients and their caregivers."

The Mayor and The Mayoress, Kim Lomax have lived experience having lost her father to Alzheimers. 

The launch event served as a testament to the community's unwavering dedication to fostering a dementia-friendly environment in South Ribble, setting a promising trajectory for enhanced support and advocacy in the realm of dementia care.

How can you help?

You can get involved and help us by:

- Joining the South Ribble Dementia Community Connection by emailing [email protected] - in particular if you are a carer or living with dementia, we would value your time to help us develop our plans and activities.

- becoming a how to become a Dementia Friend

- submitting to be a part of the South Ribble Dementia Charter