Step forward for initiative to make town dementia friendly

Glenrothes has taken another step towards becoming dementia friendly thanks to a small business in the town.

Blairs, a purveyor of quality foods, is the latest shop to join the dementia friendly business community through a project run by Fife’s Health and Social Care Partnership, Glenrothes Area Committee and Alzheimer Scotland.

The aim is to support people living with dementia and their carers to remain valued and active in the community.

This includes supporting people to continue to shop, use public transport or visit places such as cafés or sports centres.

Amanda Hunter, project manager for the Glenrothes Dementia Friendly Campaign, said Blairs had been recognised for their sensitivity towards people with dementia.

“Blairs was first mentioned to me by a carer who told me about the customer care that their partner with dementia received in the shop,” she said.

Business can attend dementia friendly awareness sessions to give them a better understanding of the illness. Access can also be provided to the online version of Dementia Friends.

Members of the Dementia Friendly Campaign will also walk around premises and suggest any changes necessary to help businesses become more accessible.

Many of the changes are small and can be made at little or no cost but they can make a big difference to those affected by dementia.

Businesses, services and community groups across Glenrothes who wish to get involved should contact Amanda Hunter on 01592 803800 or by email ahunter@alzscot.org.