Dementia Matters to the Welsh Ambulance Service

THE Welsh Ambulance Service has been meeting people with dementia in Powys.

Events in Ystradgynlais, Welshpool, Newtown, Llandrindod Wells and Brecon, held jointly with Dementia Matters in Powys, enabled the Trust to deliver interactive experiences and other activities to people living with dementia, their carers and families.

Dementia Matters in Powys is a charity that supports the health and wellbeing of people living with dementia and those who care for them.

Alison Johnstone, the Welsh Ambulance Service’s Programme Manager for Dementia, said: “This engagement work is vital for us to listen and learn from people affected by dementia.

“For example, feedback tells us that ambulance vehicle environments can be distressing and difficult for people living with dementia.

“These sessions not only allow us to educate people about what to expect when accessing our services, but where possible, vehicles are showcased to allow potential users to become familiar with their surroundings.

“These opportunities to engage and educate are a key part of our Dementia Plan.”

The number of people living with dementia is expected to triple from 50 million to 152 million by 2050, according to the World Health Organization.

Wendy Moss, Dementia Community Development Officer for Dementia Matters, said: “The Welsh Ambulance Service provides such a valuable service to our local communities.

“It was nice to be able to engage with the Trust without having to go through the trauma of an emergency.

“Thank you – we look forward to having you visit us again in the future."

The Welsh Ambulance Service is recognised as a Dementia Friendly Organisation by the Alzheimer’s Society.

If you want to learn more about the Welsh Ambulance Service’s dementia work, please contact the Dementia Team on amb_mentalhealth@wales.nhs.uk

Editor’s Notes
Follow the link to read the Trust’s Mental Health and Dementia Plan: https://ambulance.nhs.wales/about-us/mental-health/

For more information on Dementia Matters in Powys, visit: https://www.dementiamatterspowys.org.uk/

For more information, email Communications Officer Beth.Eales@wales.nhs.uk or call Beth on 07870 383209.