Emma White, Commercial Director, and Apple Jacobe, In-House Nurse, at Hamilton George Care, share how becoming Dementia Friends has equipped staff with valuable knowledge and practical changes they can make, both personally and professionally, to support people with dementia.
Emma said: “At Hamilton George Care, our in-house team undertakes comprehensive clinical and specialist dementia training, but our recent experience of becoming Dementia Friends has had a profound impact - both in our professional practice and in our daily lives.
“While our carers and nurses are already dementia care specialists - the Dementia Friends programme offered something uniquely valuable for our in-house team. Dementia Friends Sessions are designed to deepen understanding of what it’s truly like to live with dementia and how to recognise symptoms and support people when out and about.
“This information and knowledge gained from becoming Dementia Friends was a reminder of the daily effects of dementia, and how compassion, empathy, and awareness are crucial in all environments.”
“Dementia Friends encouraged our staff to look beyond the practicalities of managing our care team and focus on our carer's experience of supporting someone with dementia. It gave a deeper understanding of some of the situations our care team may face and how to support them to provide the very best care.
“Our in-house team is now better equipped to support the families of those with a loved one requiring dementia care. The practical knowledge shared by Dementia Friends will help us to guide the conversation and gain clarity on situations and circumstances they need to manage with patience, reassurance, and expertise.
“Perhaps most significantly, Dementia Friends influence extends well beyond our professional lives. Many of our team members have found themselves applying their dementia awareness in real-world scenarios and are now clearer on how they may support neighbours, assist strangers in public, or help friends and family members living with dementia. This has fostered a culture of compassion and vigilance that benefits our wider community.
“By sharing insights from Dementia Friends, our in-house staff have become advocates for dementia awareness, helping to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone - inside and outside of Hamilton George Care.
Apple Jacobe, In-House Nurse, said that even as experienced dementia care professionals, Dementia Friends has given the team a new perspective:
“It reminded us that every interaction - no matter how small - can make a difference for someone living with dementia. The tools and awareness we gained have not only strengthened our clinical practice but have also helped us support people with dementia in our everyday lives, beyond the care environment.”
If you'd like to learn more about Dementia Friends, sign up today, or email us at dementiafriends@alzheimers.org.uk
