Watch this film to see how Dementia Friendly Gurudwaras works to create a dementia friendly community. This is just one example of how voluntary organisations are making a difference.

Voluntary Organisations undertake essential work to make communities dementia friendly. This is through a broad range of work providing services, information and activities for people with dementia and their carers. Not only do they provide these services, but the organisations are committed to ensuring that this is integrated into the community, empowering people with dementia to contribute and live fulfilled lives.

The Dementia Friendly Gurudwaras project, a local initiative in Bradford, is spearheaded by Sikh healthcare professionals who are passionate about making a difference to those affected by dementia.

The Gurudwara (Sikh temple) is a hub for spiritual and social activity in the Sikh community. Because older people make up a significant proportion of the congregation, the Dementia Friendly Gurudwaras team recognised that the Gurudwara could play an important role in raising awareness of dementia and providing support to people with dementia and their families.

They are now implementing their action plan, which includes tailored workshops, courses, lectures and information in English and Punjabi. As well as using traditional information-giving methods, they have set up a website for those who can use computers, with information about dementia and local resources -- this is especially useful for younger family members who have relatives with dementia. They have recently begun to record sound files in Punjabi for the website, to make the information more accessible to people who find it difficult to read English or who have eyesight problems.

One of the biggest challenges faced is the lack of knowledge and the stigma which surrounds dementia in the Sikh community. They have introduced a suggestion box in the Gurudwara so that people can share suggestions about our work anonymously. In the future they hope to hold workshops to encourage open discussion about dementia.

By creating a safe and friendly environment in which people feel they can open up, the Gurudwara can become a hub for the social support which is badly needed for families affected by dementia.

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The Dementia Friendly Communities programme focuses on improving inclusion and quality of life for people with dementia. The Alzheimer's Society's five year strategy includes a key ambition to work with people affected by dementia and key partners to define and develop dementia friendly communities. Dementia Friends is a key part of the Dementia Friendly Communities programme. The Prime Minister's challenge on dementia also includes an ambition to create communities that are working to help people live well with dementia.

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Who are we?

Alzheimer's Society is the leading support and research charity for people with dementia, their families and carers.

What is dementia?

The term 'dementia' is used to describe the symptoms that occur when the brain is affected by specific diseases and conditions. Symptoms of dementia include loss of memory, confusion and problems with speech and understanding.

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If you have concerns about Alzheimer's disease or about any other form of dementia, please contact the Alzheimer's Society National Dementia Helpline on 0300 222 1122.

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