A powerful stage show has given theatre-goers in Stockport an insight into how dementia affects individuals and families.
To mark Dementia Awareness Week 2014, Stockport Council teamed up with the Alzheimer’s Society, EDUCATE, Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust and NHS Stockport CCG to put on a live show and dementia information evening.
The Carver Theatre in Marple played host to ‘Over the Garden Fence’, a Haylo Theatre production which follows Annabelle and her Gran Dolly, who has dementia, on an emotional journey through life, sharing memories of happiness, sorrow, love and humour.
Pictured above are representatives from Stockport Council, Stockport Dementia Care Training, EDUCATE, Age UK Stockport, Alzheimer’s Society, Signpost Stockport for Carers, FLAG, Haylo Theatre and The Carver Theatre with the Mayor & Mayoress of Stockport, Councillor Chris Murphy and Mrs Dot Murphy.
The performance was followed by an information session where people who are living with dementia shared their personal experiences and urged people who were concerned to seek information, advice and support from local organisations as early as possible.
The Mayor and Mayoress of Stockport, Councillor Chris Murphy and Dot Murphy supported the sold out event, which raised over £240 for Stockport Alzheimer’s Society, one of the Mayor’s Charities.
Councillor John Pantall, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:
“Dementia is a local health priority and I am pleased we are raising awareness of these issues. By working together we can support people with dementia and their carers to live active lives in the community. Local organisations can offer the help and support that can make a huge difference to the lives of people with dementia.”
There are over 4,000 people estimated to be living with Dementia in Stockport.
The Council is supporting the national ‘Dementia – Be a Friend’ campaign. Residents are being urged to sign up as a Dementia Friend by simply watching an interactive video online to increase their understanding of the condition. For more information on becoming a Dementia Friend, visit www.dementiafriends.org.uk
To find out more about local support services available for people with dementia visit www.stockport.gov.uk/dementia.