Police officers and staff in Essex are being encouraged to become ‘Dementia Friends’ as part of an initiative to mark Dementia Day.

Essex Police have teamed up with the Essex Dementia Action Alliance to help officers to improve their knowledge of dementia and make them more able to support those affected by the condition.

Around 20,000 people are living with dementia in Essex, a figure which is expected to rise to 30,000 by 2025.

Over 150 officers and staff have already become Dementia Friends to help promote understanding of the illness. Dementia Friends are encouraged to turn their knowledge into a practical action, which could be anything from offering help or support to someone affected by the illness to spreading the word to raise awareness.

Detective Sergeant Craig Wiggins said: “Essex Police have signed up to the Essex Dementia Action Alliance to show our commitment to strengthen our response to the condition.

“This will help ensure those living with dementia, their friends, family and carers receive both understanding and a good quality of service from Essex Police.

“While we are putting significant efforts into ensuring that our own officers and staff understand the individual needs of those with dementia, we also want to raise awareness in the wider community and ensure that we are all playing our part in looking out for vulnerable residents of Essex.”

To become a Dementia Friend or simply increase your own knowledge, visit the Dementia Friends website by clicking here.