Barrow AFC is committing to take action to help those living with dementia after members of the Club’s staff and stewarding team became Dementia Friends.
Chief Executive Levi Gill, along with all the Club’s full-time staff as well as several volunteers, stewards and safety staff recently completed a virtual Information Session, hosted by the Alzheimer’s Society.
During the hour-long exercise, staff were educated around the subject of dementia, given advice about interacting with those living with the disease and invited to commit to taking action – whether large or small.
The Bluebirds are the latest in a growing number of clubs that have become ‘Dementia Friendly’, and it is hoped that the power of football can help to deliver a positive impact across communities.
“It’s an issue that is really important to me because my dad is currently living with vascular dementia,” explained Barrow Media Manager Mark Simpson.
“I am really pleased that the Club and the staff have taken this step to become Dementia Friends and hopefully the session has inspired us all to think a little more about dementia and consider what positive steps we can take.
“It’s been a particularly challenging year for those living with dementia and their families, and initiatives like Dementia Friends are crucial in educating people and organisations about the disease.”
There are currently around 850,000 people with dementia in the UK and this is predicted to rise to 1.6million by 2040, with 209,600 expected to develop dementia this year – that’s one every three minutes.
If you would like to learn more about becoming a Dementia Friend then click here now.