Prison raises the bar with dementia awareness drive
Staff and inmates at HMP Shotts have been given national recognition at the Scottish Dementia Awards.
The prison picked up the gong for the Most Innovative Partnership at the awards ceremony held on World Alzheimer’s Day, September 21, at the Glasgow Marriott Hotel.
Over the last 18 months the project between HMP Shotts and Alzheimer Scotland has seen over 200 prisoners and 55 members of staff engage in dementia awareness and information sessions.
Over 40 family and friends of inmates have also taken part in the sessions at the prison’s visitor centre.
According to research, prisoners have a higher rate than the general population of dementia risks.
These include head injuries, smoking, drug and alcohol misuse and low eductional attainment.
However, there has been very little research into dementia in prison.
Alzheimer Scotland chief executive Henry Simmons said:“It is fitting that we are celebrating the wonderful contribution that individuals and teams have made across the dementia care sector on World Alzheimer’s Day.
“This year’s winners have raised the bar, yet again, and I am delighted to see everyone congratulated for their efforts to support people living with dementia and their families.
“A big thank you to everyone who played their part in this year’s awards to make the programme the continued success it is and I look forward to the coming year as we look to strengthen the awards programme and recognise the outstanding work, care, innovation and services across Scotland.”