Raising awareness of dementia in Kirklees

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On Sunday 11 September hundreds of people turned out in Honley for Tea on the Pitch – an event organised by Kirklees Admiral Nurses to raise money for Dementia UK, which supports people affected by dementia, their carers and families.

Christine Talbot, news presenter on ITV, opened the event with Suzanne Wightman, project lead in the Trust’s older people’s service, who spoke about the aim of the day and the work of the Admiral Nurses service.

Over 400 people came along on the day, raising around £2000 for Dementia UK and enjoyed raffles, stalls, cream teas, a BBQ and music from Honley Brass Band. The whole event was also broadcast by Two Valley’s Radio.

The event was also an opportunity for the Admiral Nurses to raise awareness of their service in Kirklees. Admiral Nurses are registered community mental health nurses specialising in dementia care. They work in partnership with other health and social care providers and aim to improve dementia care through their leadership and support.

In 2010, the Admiral Nurses service was established in Kirklees thanks to a partnership between the Trust, Dementia UK, Kirklees Council and NHS Kirklees. Michelle McGowan and Peter Walker, the current Admiral Nurses, work with people caring for those with dementia, providing skilled support and help. They also provide information and support to professionals who provide care for people living with dementia.

Michelle said, "I just want to say a big thank you to everyone who came along on Sunday and helped us raise money for Dementia UK. Dementia affects around 4000 people in Kirklees which is why it is so important to help support those who are affected by it, their families and carers. The day was also a great opportunity for us to raise awareness of the help the Admiral Nurses can give to people, whether they want advice, information or more intensive support to deal with the difficulties they are facing."

Raising awareness of dementia in Kirklees

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