Robert tells us why he was inspired to become a Dementia Friends Ambassador, and how his passion and enthusiasm over the past decade has inspired an incredible 1,200 Dementia Friends.
Robert delivering the bookcase analogy.
“One of my closest family friends, Melvyn, owns Bluebird Care in Colchester. His journey with dementia began when his father – a decorated WW2 pilot was diagnosed – some years ago.”
Robert says that watching a friend deteriorate was very humbling for all who knew him. Particularly his family.
“Melvyn’s life has become devoted to caring. Many of Bluebird’s clients are living with dementia. In 2014 Melvyn asked me to sign up to volunteer as a Dementia Friends Champion so I could deliver sessions to family, friends, members of staff and carers. And this I have done with passion and enthusiasm!”
Robert says that soon the word got out there was a lot of interest in the sessions.
“I soon found myself with 1,200 Dementia Friends: local government, hospitals, libraries and retailers.”
When Covid and lockdowns put everything on pause, Robert wasn’t able to deliver sessions, but his passion and enthusiasm for the cause remained.
“When I recontacted Alzheimer’s Society to see how I could start to run sessions again, they explained the role had changed from Champion to Ambassador. I was happy to be able to continue my journey and became an Ambassador, I have made 24 new friends since!”
Robert says a great thing about running sessions is the feedback he receives from attendees. “I enjoy getting them involved and making the sessions fun as well as serious. People remember key aspects that are interactive, such as the bookcase analogy.”
Outside of running sessions, Robert has helped with running a successful Dementia Awareness Day at Bluebird Care and continues to be passionate about raising awareness wherever possible.
“My first session to Colchester School. There were 300 pupils, teaching staff and some parents. It was a great experience, and the children were very keen to participate.”
