DEMENTIA IN SOCIETY
Dementia Friends – keeping up the good work There are 25 Alzheimer’s associations throughout Europe which have implemented Dementia Friends programmes in their countries. We spoke to some of them about how successful this global movement has been, since its inception in the United Kingdom in 2013, and about how they continue to engage people after they become Dementia Friends.
Dementia Friends England and Wales
Global Dementia Friends Network – the beginning and end of an era
Until spring 2020, Alzheimer’s Society coordinated the Global Dementia Friends Network (GDFN), supporting other countries to develop Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends programme their own Dementia Friends programmes by providing capacity-building support and Launched in England and Wales in 2013, the are encouraged to be ambassadors for the fostering a global network. Under the GDFN, Dementia Friends programme of the Alzheim- programme in England and Wales. national Alzheimer’s associations and other er’s Society is the UK’s biggest ever initiative organisations in over 67 countries and terto change people’s perceptions of demen- The success of the Dementia Friends pro- ritories worked together to share, support tia. Dementia Friends are those who have gramme is measured via a theory of change and collaborate for a truly global dementia watched our video or attended a session brought together with the Dementia friendly movement. The GDFN created over 19 delivered by a Dementia Champion, at which Friendly Communities initiative. Dementia million Dementia Friends worldwide. they learn more about dementia and the awareness, empathy and understanding of ways in which they can help. There are over the rights of people affected by dementia as Alzheimer’s Society International work is 3.7 million people taking action as Dementia programme outcomes are further evaluated mostly funded by the UK Department of Friends across England and Wales. by in-depth interviews. Health and Social Care. This funding was withdrawn in early 2020 and no additional Dementia Friends receive a welcome email Dementia Friends are also surveyed on a reg- source of funding was secured. This has led with a reminder of their learning and ular basis. It has been identified that 86% of to the decision to permanently disband the actions, as well as a monthly newsletter Dementia Friends in England and Wales have international team and the GDFN. with opportunities to get involved and the an improved understanding of dementia and latest programme announcements. On social 84% feel the programme is inspiring com- The GDFN was a project part of the Implemenmedia, Dementia Friends can also engage munities to take action. Personal stories of tation Plan for the Prime Minister’s Challenge with each other, discuss key messages, ‘like’ impact also demonstrate the success of the on Dementia 2020, where Alzheimer’s Sociphotos and stories. Dementia Friends have programme and are celebrated at the annual ety committed to, “turning Dementia Friends also been involved in campaigns where they Dementia Friendly Awards. into a global movement including sharing its
United Kingdom – paving the way
Some important points to note: 1. The national programme and all associated activities (Demen- 3. Programmes using their own brand and materials should not tia Friendly Communities, Programme Partnerships, etc.) in be affected by changes to the network. the UK will continue. 4. If a new country (via its Alzheimer’s association) wants to 2. All existing programmes with a license (a signed agreement) launch a Dementia Friends programme, they should contact for the use of Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends logo and Alzheimer’s Society Head of Policy, Gavin Terry, Gavin.Terry@ Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friends materials will continue alzheimers.org.uk to enter into an agreement to use the brand to be able to use them as part of their national Dementia and materials. This is to avoid misuse of the brand. Friends programme in accordance to the current agreement.
26 Dementia in Europe
