Funds for valued friendship

Alzheimer Scotland have been awarded more than £45,000 towards their successful befriending scheme.

The ‘Forget Me Not’ project has been backed by the Young Start fund, a grants programme that distributes money from dormant bank accounts.

It matches young volunteers with older people with dementia in care homes across Scotland.

Sian Hunter, volunteer coordinator, said: “I know that this project has made a significant difference to both the young people and the older people that they are matched with.

“The students have gained so much from their visits and it’s really helped with their understanding of dementia.

“When they are given the opportunity young people can make a significant contribution to people living with dementia through genuine interest in that person, natural respect, patience and being a good listener.

“The project will be able to continue for another year thanks to Young Start, something we are all really thankful for. We are all looking forward to another year of laughter, smiles, companionship and, most importantly, understanding.”

Run by the Big Lottery Fund Scotland, Young Start supports a range of projects to help young people aged eight to 24 years old reach their full potential.

For more information on the project, see www. biglotteryfund.org.uk