McCartneys back Alzheimer’s Society

McCartneys staff have been fundraising for their chosen charity of the year – The Alzheimer’s Society UK.

“There have been many ways to raise money, from cake sales and sweepstakes, to memory walks and climbing numerous ascents of Pen Y Fan, the equivalent of scaling Everest. For your support and sponsorship we’re truly grateful,” said a spokesperson.

“However, there’s another valuable way in which we can support - time. Time, patience and understanding given to the people affected, along with their families and friends.”

On September 16, a group of staff gathered at McCartneys Head Office to take part in the Dementia Friends programme, led by Emma and Lisa from the Alzheimer’s Society. It is the biggest ever initiative to change people’s perceptions of dementia. Its aim is to transform the way the nation thinks, acts and talks about the condition.

As a brief introduction, the team were asked to sum up dementia in one or two words. Responses, such as loneliness, cruel, memory loss were pitched, all of them negative. People that had worked closely together for many years were surprised at how dementia has had such an impact on their colleagues. Some had lost family members while others were still helping to fight and support. 

Being a Dementia Friend simply means learning more about dementia, putting yourself in the shoes of someone living with the condition, and turning your understanding into action.

Following this programme, two members of staff are going forward to become Dementia Champions. Champions are trained and supported by the Alzheimer’s Society to run Information sessions in the work place and community, and help inspire others to help those living with dementia, to live well.