Stepping Hill Hospital and community NHS services can now offer more support for patients living with dementia, following the launch of the Dementia Friends training available to staff and volunteers in Stockport.
Dementia Friends is part of a national initiative to provide more awareness of the particular needs of those suffering from the condition, to make sure they can be met and understood.
The training is provided by Mamoona Hood, the Matron for Dementia Care at Stockport NHS Foundation Trust which runs hospital and community services. Since the programme started in January the trust now has over 40 Dementia Friends, with the number rising weekly.
Stepping Hill Hospital treats around 1300 patients a year who are living with dementia. The training follows the introduction of other dementia friendly initiatives in recent months, including decorating wards in more soothing colours, and including dementia friendly clocks and signage across the hospital. The hospital’s Memory Café also offers therapeutic sessions including pampering and stimulation activities.
Mamoona Hood said:
We’re determined to provide the most supportive environment we can for patients with dementia, so I’m delighted we’ve had such a positive response from staff and volunteers in taking up the training as Dementia Friends. I’ve found a real enthusiasm for learning among those taking part, and I’m sure this will be learning will be shared with their colleagues in making our services in both the hospital and community as dementia friendly as we can.”