In 2006, a newly diagnosed dementia family living in Portgower, a tiny hamlet in East Sutherland, realised there was no understanding or indeed support for this illness, so they decided to change the situation. Now some 12 years later, with the establishment in 2012 of Dementia Friendly Communities Ltd (DFC) in Helmsdale and funding from the Life Changes Trust, that model of support developed over this time period is being rolled out across rural Highlands in partnership with NHS Highland Public Health and Age Scotland.
This website provides an over-arching framework of guiding principles summarising what has been learned along the journey. Practical ‘how to’ templates will nestle behind each of the principles with useful and tested information providing step-by-step guides around the practicalities of setting up a circle of support to provide community led activities, services and support that meets local needs. This information is not only for people with dementia, but indeed for all vulnerable folk, including those with life limiting illnesses, long term conditions, loneliness & isolation concerns and carers who need help.
We also recognise that while many rural communities across the Highlands face similar challenges as those in Helmsdale, no two communities are the same. Taking lessons learned from the Helmsdale model, it is hoped this framework will support and enable a network of rural communities across the Highlands to develop their own brand of community led activities, services and support that meet their local needs. It is hoped that those using the network, in turn share their learning with other communities.
We are at the beginning of an exciting new pathway… come join us!