“The aim of this week is to raise awareness of dementia, helping improve the lives of people with dementia, their families and carers,” said Natalie Don MSP (SNP – Renfrewshire North & West), commenting on Dementia Awareness Week, organised by Alzheimer Scotland and which runs from 30th May until 5th June.

This year's theme is 'Let's Prevent, Care, Cure dementia together' and over the week Alzheimer Scotland will run a series of events, including their Tea & Blether campaign which will run throughout both Dementia Awareness Week and June. The ‘Tea & Blether’ campaign encourages supporters to organise tea and coffee mornings to help raise awareness of dementia and the support available from Alzheimer Scotland. You can sign up for free and download a fundraising pack full of ideas and toolkits to help host a Tea and Blether worth talking about. As part of Dementia Awareness Week, Alzheimer Scotland is encouraging supporters to host their own coffee morning either during this awareness week or any time in June.

Natalie Don MSP added:

“I am delighted to support Dementia Awareness Week organised by Alzheimer Scotland, this is a diagnosis that too many families have to live with and it is important that information about the help and support that is available is more widely known.

“Dementia is not part of the natural ageing process, it affects the brain, making it harder to remember things or think as clearly as before. It's an umbrella term for over 100 different types of illnesses and disease symptoms.

“Alzheimer Scotland provides information, support and dementia-friendly activities to help make sure nobody faces dementia alone.

“The Tea & Blether campaign is a great way to raise awareness and discuss common concerns. Social engagement has a positive impact on our wellbeing and brain. Tea & Blether is a chance to enjoy each other’s company while supporting our own health and people living with dementia.

“I would encourage everyone to get involved in Dementia Awareness Week.”

Alzheimer Scotland will have an information desk, Dementia Advisors and Link Workers to answer any questions you may have about dementia. Join us at: Braehead Shopping Centre on Friday 3 June between 10am and 4pm includes a Tea & Blether in the Atrium