THE next step forward in a pioneering initative to make Tavistock one of the first dementia-friendly communities in the UK takes place next month.

Tavistock Dementia Action Alliance (TDAA) is hoping to respond to the call by Prime Minister David Cameron to establish itself as one of the 20 dementia-friendly recognised communities in the UK by 2015.

The town has already been selected nationally by the Alzheimers' Society to pilot an initiative which will increase awareness and understanding of dementia and for those who care for them among the general public.

The condition is caused when connections are lost in the brain through inflammation, disease or injury.

It can lead to symptoms including memory loss, neglect of personal care, balance problems, changes in mood and changes in personality.

Dementia is mostly associated with the elderly but younger people may be affected too.

The TDAA is appealing to the whole community at every level to support the project, and now a 'Dementia Friends Champions' training course is to be held at Tavistock Town Hall on Thursday, October 17.

A diverse group have signed up for the course so far, including 4Hire Taxis, the police, Tavistock Area Christians Together, Amanotech, Tavistock Rotary Club as well as local councillors Mandy Ewings and Debo Sellis.

Chris Panter, owner of 4Hire Taxi in Tavistock, said he and his firm were more than happy to sign up for the training course.

He said: 'Tavistock has a high level of elderly population and for some of them our taxi service may be the only point of contact with another person they have during the day.

'Our drivers see elderly people day after day and after a period of time see some of them get worse and worse. Mrs Smith, say, may go every Tuesday into town and if you she doesn't call us, we notice.

'Many a time I have called Derriford and checked if one of our customers has turned up for a regular appointment.'

Mr Panter, who supports the town's bid as one of the UK towns to become a pilot scheme, hopes that more local businesses will support the initiative.

He added that people need to recognise the signs of illnesses like dementia and have a greater understanding to help sufferers in everyday situations.

TDAA chairman Tony Parker told the Times: 'We are trying to engage with the business community, shops, clubs, schools, churches, care homes, medical practices — all those organisations that make up life in Tavistock.'

TDDA is appealing to shops and businesses to give advice on how to make small changes to make a big difference to dementia sufferers and their carers.

Subtle changes in signage, lighting, flooring and seating are practical ways to help.

Tony is pleased with the response so far to those who have agreed to attend training course.

A retired policeman, Tony volunteered his services for the TDAA after seeing his mother suffer from dementia.

He said that many of those in the TDAA and its steering group have had similar experiences of coping with the progressive deterioration of those with the condition.

Tony said: 'People at the Memory Cafe in Tavistock, when asked what could be done for them, replied they want to find their own way around the town, be able to feel safe and not feel embarrassed.

'They also want to carry on doing the same things they have always done — like going to the shops, catching a bus, sit in the park, doing the shopping.

'Those with dementia say they still want to feel part of the community here in Tavistock.'

He cited one man who used to love playing golf at Tavistock Golf Club but who gave up because he became embarrassed among other players when out on the course and suddenly forgetting where he was and what he was doing.

Tony recalled another sufferer from the town who also unfortunately became more isolated from social activities.

'One lady when she was asked the one thing she would like to do again since suffering from dementia said "I would like to go to church" before adding: "Do you think God has forgotten me?",' said Tony.

Anyone who would like to know more about the Dementia Friends Champions' training course or who would like to know more about Tavistock Dementia Action Alliance can call Tony Parker on 01364 631507.