TWENTY-four trades and businesses showed their support for those living with dementia in Ilkley by attending an event at the Clarke Foley Centre to find out how they could become dementia friendly.

They took part in a dementia friends information session delivered by Dementia Friendly Ilkley Action dementia champions Alison Eagle and Sylvia Bergen to find out more about dementia and how it affects those living with dementia.

Karl Swain, of K.Glazing, the only trade nationally on the Dementia Action Alliance database, explained why it is vital that businesses and, especially trades, become Dementia Friendly.

He told the audience and how it has helped his customers who care for loved ones with dementia feel more comfortable when he is working in their homes. They know that he understands dementia and is happy to chat and makes sure that the environment is safe for those living with dementia.

Karl has even put the logo of being a recognised Dementia Friendly business - a forget-me-not - on his work t-shirts. Recently a customer on seeing the logo had the courage to admit she was worried about her husband but had no idea of what to do? Karl reassured her that advice and support is available, signposting her to the Alzheimer’s Society website and phone line and encouraged her to visit their GP.

Finally, the business and tradespeople found out how to register as a Dementia Friendly business with the Dementia Action Alliance by completing a simple form which includes committing to three actions or more. All those who attended the event committed to do so as soon as possible.

Alison Eagle, from Dementia Friendly Ilkley Action (DFIA), said: "It was great to see the enthusiasm and commitment of those attending to become Dementia Friendly, many of them go into people’s homes so it important that they understand the needs of those living with dementia. We need all businesses in Ilkley to commit so we can continue to make Ilkley a better community for those living with dementia.”

Any business or organisation in Ilkley wishing to find out more about becoming Dementia Friendly can email dementiafriendlyilkley@gmail.com or visit www.dementiafriendlyilkley.weebly.com