PLANS to transform attitudes towards dementia in Barrow will start at the grassroots level with more sessions set up to raise awareness.

Barrow Dementia Action Alliance with the support of Cumbria County Council is committing to putting on Dementia Friends sessions at venues around Barrow every month.

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The idea of expanding the free sessions was something feedback from the alliance's launch back in October supported, especially as the events will be held at different sites across the borough and at different times so more people can access them.

The awareness events will help attendees understand the complexities of dementia while also show them simple and practical ways they can look out for people who might need extra support.

Fiona Cloherty, chair of Barrow Dementia Action Alliance, is encouraging members of the public to take advantage of the chance to learn more about dementia as it affects more and more families.

She said: "The sessions are being supported by Cumbria County Council. It's a great way to improve awareness in the community.

"There are simple things we can all do to help so people with dementia can be independent, particularly the early diagnosed."

The first session will be held at Phoenix Business Centre in Phoenix Road, Barrow, on Wednesday March 29 at 10.30am.

There will then be sessions at Stafford House in Rating Lane, Barrow, on Friday April 28 at 2.30pm, at Barrow Fire Station on Thursday May 18 at 10.30am, at Phoenix Business Centre again on Friday June 23 at 10.30am, and at Stafford House again on Wednesday July 12 at 2.30pm.

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A launch of a 'dementia hub' idea is provisionally booked in for Friday May 19 at The Forum in Duke Street.

The event will showcase some of the activities available in Barrow and the surrounding area.

Mrs Cloherty is looking for groups to get involved in the alliance as it begins its work to help people in their own communities.

She said: "If people have got a service they can offer, and even if they can't attend, we want to hear from them."

The alliance was launched last year to help support people with dementia, and encourage shops and businesses to make small adjustments and get involved.

In Barrow, it is estimated that by 2050 there will be 3,000 people living in the borough of Barrow with dementia.

Email fiona@phoenixbusinesscentre.co.uk or ring 01229 840240.