AN INITIATIVE to make Tavistock the first 'dementia-friendly' town in the UK has received support and a cash boost from Devon County Council.

The Tavistock Dementia Action Alliance has been set up to educate and encourage shops, organisations and the public to heighten the understanding of the needs of those with dementia.

Devon County Councillor for Tavistock Debo Sellis last week voiced her support for the scheme and allocated £500 from her Devon County Council member locality budget to help fund the initiative.

She said: 'I have had meetings with volunteers who are working on establishing Tavistock as a dementia-friendly town. I granted £500 from the locality budget and have been asked to be a "voice" for the cause. I am happy to help as much as I can.'

The first meeting of the Tavistock Dementia Action Alliance is due to take place today (Thursday), when a steering group will be formed to take the initiative forward.

The idea follows the findings of a report to government commissioned two years ago, and the Prime Minister's challenge to set up 20 dementia-friendly communities by 2015.

For more information call Tony Parker on 01364 631507 or email [email protected]">[email protected]