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The D Word

Published: 29/10/2015

More than fifty residents in Flint turned up to watch a play highlighting issues facing people with dementia. Flintshire County Council’s Social Services team organised for the drama ‘The D Word’ to be performed at the Church of St Mary and St David, Flint, as part of its efforts to raise awareness about the illness. The play, written by actress and TV scriptwriter Janys Chambers, depicts issues facing people with dementia as well as their carers and families and captures the sense of isolation that is often experienced. An interesting and informative discussion took place after the play between the audience and the actors, led by Janys and a member from Flintshire’s Social Services team. The discussion was very positive and showed the support residents have for people living with dementia in the community. The event is the latest in a series of initiatives aimed at helping Flint to become a dementia friendly town. Flintshire Council’s Social Services is working closely with local businesses, organisations and charities to develop and promote a dementia friendly community. A memory café has been set up at the parish church to offer advice and support to people with dementia and their carers and a project is underway to deliver ‘Dementia Friends’ training to members of the community so that they are able to better understand and support people with the illness. Cllr Christine Jones, Cabinet Member for Social Services, said: “Flintshire is recognised as leading the way on dementia care with services such as memory cafes and dementia friends training initiatives. The excellent partnership work going on in Flint and other areas of the county will ensure that people suffering from this illness and their carers and families have the very best support possible.” Anyone who would like to help their area become a dementia friendly community is asked to contact Flintshire County Council’s Social Services Planning and Development Team on 01352 702655 or visit www.alzheimers.org.uk for further information on Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends and Dementia Friendly Communities. Note to editors The ‘D’ Word was commissioned by BCUHB Arts in Health, Creative Well Programme and Denbighshire Council Arts, with Charitable Funds from the Arts Council of Wales and Awyr Las.