27 May 2025
Each year, Dementia Awareness Week (DAW) is held with the aim of raising awareness of dementia and helping improve the lives of people it affects.
The theme this year is ‘Every Step – Friendship is a powerful force in the life of a person with dementia’. Staying connected, listening and showing kindness can bring comfort, joy and a sense of belonging. Friends help keep memories alive, reduce loneliness and support people with dementia, their families and their carers. Small acts of friendship – whether a visit, a phone call or a shared moment can make a world of difference. We can all make sure nobody faces dementia alone.
Ahead of Dementia Awareness Week, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Lynn Weir as our new dementia specialist Admiral Nurse, a post which is supported by NHS Borders charity ‘The Difference’ and Dementia UK. Based in Galashiels and Hawick, Lynn brings extensive experience in community nursing and will provide tailored support to people living with dementia, their families and carers. Her role includes offering expert guidance and emotional support during complex or crisis situations, as well as working closely with professionals across health, social care and the third sector. Referrals to the service will be accepted from the end of July through GP practices, health and social care staff and third-sector partners.
There are currently over 90,000 people in Scotland living with a dementia diagnosis, so it’s likely that it has touched your life – you might have been diagnosed with dementia yourself or have a loved one, friend or neighbour who is living with the condition.
One way you can take positive action this week is by becoming a Dementia Friend. Dementia Friends Scotland, led by Alzheimer Scotland, is a national initiative focused on increasing understanding of dementia and reducing the stigma associated with it. Becoming a Dementia Friend is open to everyone and involves learning about dementia and the simple actions that can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected. There are two ways to become a Dementia Friend: register online in three easy steps, or arrange a session at your workplace, school or community group. For more information, visit www.alzscot.org/dementiafriends.
There are also many other ways to get involved. Several events are being held across the Scottish Borders to give people the chance to talk about dementia and reduce the stigma surrounding it - including a session at Milestone Garden Centre, where those living with dementia and their family and carers will have an opportunity to speak to our Dementia Nurse Consultant, Occupational Therapist and new Admiral Nurse Dementia Specialist about support and services available locally, and take part in an interactive planting session.
You can find details of all the events taking place here:
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Monday 2nd June 2025 |
Floors Castle Walking Group Floors Castle, Kelso TD5 7RN A wander through the woodland walk at Floors Castle followed by tea/coffee and scones in one of the cafés. Meet at the Walled Garden Ticket Kiosk |
11.00am –1pm
01573 400324 |
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Tuesday 3rd June 2025 |
Mayfield Garden Centre, Information Stand Glebe Lane, Kelso TD5 7AU Come along, show your support, donate or speak to our Dementia Advisor and Community Activities Organiser about support and services on offer in the Scottish Borders. |
10.00am – 4pm
01573 400324
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Wednesday 4th June 2025 |
Jim Clark Motorsport Museum Scalextric Challenge. Jim Clark Museum, 44 Newtown St. Duns. TD11 3AU Come along for some nostalgic fun and laughter. Enjoy a race with others, chat and reminisce. |
2pm – 4pm
01573 400324
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Thursday 5th June 2025 |
Abbotsford Nature and Natter Walking Group. Abbotsford House, Melrose. TD6 9BQ Come along for a gentle stroll and natter around the grounds of Abbotsford. Enjoy a cuppa afterwards in the Ochiltree Café. Meet at parking ticket machine. |
2pm – 4pm
01573 400324
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Friday 6th June 2025 |
Milestone Information Stand. Milestone Garden Centre, Newtown St Boswells. TD6 0PL Come along to speak to our Dementia Nurse Consultant and Occupational Therapist about support and services on offer in your area with an interactive planting session.
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10.00am – 2pm
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Christine Proudfoot, Nurse Consultant / Strategic Dementia Lead for the Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “Dementia Awareness Week is a valuable opportunity to highlight the experiences of people living with dementia and their families across the Borders. It is a great time to focus on sharing information, promoting understanding and encouraging people to access the support that is available to them.
“I would encourage everyone to take part in the events we are holding locally, start conversations about dementia and recognise the power of friendship in supporting those affected by dementia in our communities.”
More information about how you can get involved this Dementia Awareness Week can be found here: https://www.alzscot.org/daw25-resources