Some of you might be aware that I, along with representatives from other local community groups, charities, businesses and a other town council members, are supporting a movement to make Evesham the first Dementia Friendly Town in Worcestershire. With over 8,600 thought to be currently living with dementia in Worcestershire ( a figure which is only projected to rise) and over two-thirds of these people living in the community, it is clear to me that something needs to be done to overcome the stigma surrounding dementia to make our communities more 'more inclusive' and more and 'accessible' - I hope that Evesham will lead the way.

Recently I attended a meeting (along with the Town Clerk) of the Evesham Dementia Action Alliance. The group (which includes representatives from across Evesham, and is being supported by the Alzheimer's Society's Side by side Project is using feedback collected from visitors to the Evesham Dementia Cafe and Singing for the Brain Groups to help shape and deliver an initial Action Plan for Evesham the group has set itself the target for Evesham to formally apply for an initial 'Dementia Friendly'

recognition status in the Autumn.- the group.

Whilst there was a lot of drive and motivation in the room, the support and involvement of the wider community will be key to make a lasting difference. So what can we do?

As individual's we can all raise our awareness and understanding of dementia.

To find out more please contact: Jo.Hughes@alzheimers.org.uk

Cllr FRED KALER