TAVISTOCK Wharf is to host a major conference aimed at discovering ways in which people can support those living with dementia and their carers.

Organised by Rotarians Easing Problems of Dementia, a nationwide Rotary project aimed at improving the lives of families living with dementia, the conference on September 29 will explore the latest in dementia research and technology.

The speakers will explain the work of Dementia UK and Admiral Nurses and will show how Rotarians are working to serve their communities. There will also be a variety of displays by groups from across the South West who are working with dementia.

Tavistock was one of the first towns in the whole country to take up the challenge to become Dementia Friendly — a challenge that has been accepted by businesses and public services throughout the area, including Tavistock Community Hospital.

Tony Parker, president of the Tavistock Rotary Club and chair of Tavistock Dementia Action Alliance told the Times: ‘This is much more than a conference. As well as a wonderful panel of speakers, it is a chance for people living with Dementia and their carers to meet each other and share their experiences.

‘There will also be the chance to discuss their situation in private sessions with Admiral Nurses and the other expert presenters.’

Speakers include Tony Parker, Stephen Pearson, a medicine consultant in old age psychiatry with the Devon Partnership NHS Trust and Tim Jones, a nurse consultant from the Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust,

The conference starts at 10am and entrance is free for people living with dementia and unpaid carers.