A NEW look fire engine will highlight community support for those living with dementia.
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service (WFRS) unveiled the fire engine in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society and Warwickshire County Council (WCC).
The artwork has been specifically developed to provide people living with dementia, family and friends with the information needed to access key services while it continues to respond to emergencies and community visits.
It is estimated there are 7,600 people in Warwickshire living with dementia. This number is expected to rise to just over 11,000 in the next ten years.
Station commander Keith McDermott said: “It is important that our fire crews are informed and educated about those living with dementia, especially when they’re carrying out ‘safe and well’ visits across the county, where they meet many residents with dementia. It is vital that our crews have a good understanding so that they can give safety advice in an appropriate way and identify when a resident may need further support.
“We hope that our dementia friendly appliance will encourage many of you to follow in the footsteps of our firefighters and raise awareness of the impact of dementia within our communities.
“We look forward to getting the truck out on the roads and championing dementia all around Warwickshire.”
County council chiefs are also urging residents to become ‘dementia friends’ to increase their understanding of dementia and show their support for those living with the disease.
WCC adult social care and health spokesman Coun Les Caborn added: “Supporting our residents with dementia is a key priority for Warwickshire County Council and raising awareness of dementia throughout the county with the help of WFRS is a great way to do this.
“We hope it reminds residents to learn more about dementia, and even take the initiative to become a dementia friend – an opportunity to learn more about what it is like to live with dementia and turn that understanding into action.”
There are now nearly 30,000 Dementia Friends across the county including many of WFRS staff.
Visit dementia.warwickshire.gov.uk to find out more.
