Exploring dementia through art in east Belfast

The art class Linda and Jean attend is one of hundreds of events that take place in east Belfast during the year which bring people with dementia and their carers together.

Eamon Quinn from Dementia Friendly East Belfast says the aim is to make people in the community aware of dementia and how to support those with it.

“More than 2,000 people have had dementia-awareness training, and there are more than 200 organisations and businesses that have got involved in our work,” Mr Quinn said.

“It’s stimulated weekly coffee mornings, there’s been tea dances, there are walks, there are carers’ cafes to support people who are looking after people living with dementia as well.

“The movement is really growing,” he added.

“So we’re keen to emphasise that small changes in a community can really make it accessible for people who are living with dementia.

“It’s really promoting the idea that sometimes people just need a little more time or a little bit of assistance in order to take part fully in their communities.”