Dementia Friend, Mark, shares his story.
"My journey with Dementia Friends started when I was responsible for looking after a vulnerable customers strategy at a leading bank. I was delighted to be able to develop a strategy that ensured we provided tailored support for those living with dementia. Staff at the bank all became Dementia Friends and learnt about how they could better communicate with, and support, customers.
"Becoming a Dementia Friend helped me to understand the challenges faced by those living with dementia and the ways we can offer support. It was also really interesting to hear about the different types of dementia and how the condition can make everyday tasks more challenging.
"I founded Encore Football a couple of years ago with the aim of providing people of all ages and abilities access to elite sports technology. Since becoming a Dementia Friend, I have collaborated with Yes We Can and Tibbs Dementia Foundation to run several fun, engaging sessions at a local dementia group, utilising this technology.
"It has been amazing to be able to do this in so many diverse ways that can also be fantastic for the local community. I have four more sessions lined up before the end of the year!
"I always offer support to those around me when I can. I have supported a neighbour who was recently diagnosed with dementia. I helped by mowing her lawn, helped her with her computer and helped when she locked herself out of her home. Being a Dementia Friend is all about lending a helping hand and looking for opportunities to show kindness wherever possible.
"I would 100% recommend becoming a Dementia Friend and learning more about what it is like to live with dementia – more people having that knowledge will make such a positive impact for people living with the condition."
Join Mark and millions of others, become a Dementia Friend here.
