BROMSGROVE and Redditch have officially become Dementia Friendly Communities.

Members of the Redditch and Bromsgrove Dementia Action Alliance (DAA) helped the two towns achieve status, which is part of a national Alzheimer’s Society programme.

More than 225 communities have taken part since it launched in September 2013, to ensure people affected by dementia feel understood and included.

Jessica Knight, Dementia Friendly Communities Officer for Alzheimer’s Society, said: “It’s fantastic that Redditch and Bromsgrove Dementia Action Alliance are being recognised as a Dementia Friendly Community.

“It is a testament to all their hard work to support people affected by dementia in the area.”

The local DAA is made up of organisations, businesses and groups living in Redditch and Bromsgrove who are keen to help find ways to improve services and attitudes in the local community for people living with dementia.

Chair of the group and owner of Home Instead Senior Care Redditch and Bromsgrove, Annie Dixon Dunn, said: “We are so proud that Redditch and Bromsgrove have officially become a dementia friendly community, thanks to the hard work of our local Dementia Action Alliance Group.

“Core members Angie Roberts (WCC Public Health), Natalie Alcock (VIP Day Centre) and Stuart McGoo (AGE UK Hereford and Worcester) have played a key role in achieving this status and I would like to thank them for their time and effort towards making Redditch and Bromsgrove a Dementia Friendly Community.”

Ms Dunne is also stepping down from her role as DAA chair and the group is now looking for someone to take up the position.

If you would like to find out more, call Annie Dixon Dunn on 01564 741620.