Championing Dementia Awareness in Derry
Community representatives and tenants have benefited hugely from an awareness session delivered by Housing Executive dementia training champions in the North West.
Alision Purcell, Housing Executive Patch Manager in Causeway and Martina Forrest, Housing Executive Manager of the Collon Terrace office facilitated the informative event held in Galliagh Community Centre, Derry for members of the Collon, Shantallow, Galliagh and Ballymagroarty communities.
Martina Forrest said,
“We are continuously helping tenants living with Dementia to sustain their tenancies.
"We do this by providing support within their homes by supplying additional services to help them live in a safe and familiar environment surrounded by their community.
“This session was a fantastic way to inform our community representatives and tenants of the range of services and support we offer to people living with Dementia and their families.
“Those attending our information day were interested to know that tenants living with Dementia receive a pack including a photo telephone, whiteboard, coloured key-tags and 2-in-1 day clock.
“Interest certainly piqued when we outlined the Dementia-friendly design options that we offer as part of Dementia Friendly Homes service which does not require an Occupational Therapist referral.
“The options available include Dementia-friendly colour contrasting grab rails, toilet seats and switches.
"We also provide lever/push-top taps and replace doorknobs and handles with contrasting-coloured ones.
Alison Purcell said,
“This event was the perfect opportunity to champion the work of The Housing Executive’s Dementia Champion and Maintenance department to members of the surrounding community.
“Attendees heard about our home visiting service which helps us determine the need for any minor dementia-friendly adaptations to be made.
“During our visits we always take a holistic approach to our tenants meaning that we consider if the tenant would also benefit from a ‘standard’ minor adaptation like defining steps or installing additional external lighting.
“Likewise, in circumstances where staff identify a greater support need beyond the scope of the DFH’s service and minor adaptations available, we can signpost/refer tenants to external support providers such as an Occupational Therapist.”