HAMPSHIRE Constabulary is now officially recognised as a ‘dementia friendly’ organisation.

It follows work undertaken with the charity Dementia Friendly Hampshire.

The decision to become dementia friendly embraces a commitment by the police to increase officer understanding of the signs of dementia and develop the skills to help people living with dementia.

Symptoms are caused when the brain is damaged in some way, causing difficulties in thinking, remembering, and communicating with other people.

It is estimated at least 20,000 people and their carers are affected by dementia in Hampshire alone, and the numbers of diagnosed cases are expected to rise.

Chief Inspector Beth Pirie, Hampshire Constabulary’s dementia champion, said: “We recognise that more can be done to assist our officers, staff and volunteers in spotting the signs of dementia and handling situations effectively when symptoms are having an impact on the vulnerability of someone who may be a victim of crime.

“More police officers and staff are attending information sessions in partnership with the charity Dementia Friendly Hampshire whose expertise and experience in creating dementia-friendly communities is greatly valued and appreciated.

“We are aspiring to have greater ability and confidence to help people and their families remove the stigma and misunderstandings that can surround the condition.”

Chief Inspector Pirie continued: “Neighbourhood policing teams are in the process of receiving sessions followed by plans to provide the information to our response and patrol officers during the summer.

“Dementia Friendly stickers are being made available to be displayed on police vehicles used by officers and staff with additional understanding of dementia.”

This work is in keeping with Hampshire Constabulary’s CARE values as a police force, which stands for common sense and sound judgement; acting with integrity, courage and compassion, respecting people and keeping promises; and experiences being used to learn and improve.

For more details about the dementia-friendly initiative, which is led by the Alzheimer’s Society, visit dementiafriendlyhampshire.org.uk.